Sustainable geosystems in civil engineering (P3277)

Geosystems can be defined as composite ground related applications comprising an engineering output, soil and/or rock, and engineered materials or components – they are often also referred to using terms such as geotechnical structures and Special Geotechnical Measures. Sustainable geosystems are those that benefit the three primary viewpoints, or pillars, of sustainability i.e. the environment, society and economy.

Geosystems can often provide ‘tried and trusted’ alternative solutions to the default specification of carbon intensive ‘hard’ ground engineering assets which are traditionally constructed. Arguably, the original WRAP report was ahead of its time and while aligned with WRAP’s primary objective, to reduce waste to landfill, the guidance may not have had the impact within the ground engineering sector that it could and should have, particularly with regards to the economic case.

The proposed new CIRIA guidance will reflect current thinking on cutting carbon within the construction industry in relation to climate change mitigation and adaption. While adhering to the principles of the original WRAP Geosystems report, the content will be expanded to reflect developments in geosystems, showcasing improvements and new technologies not available at the time of its first publication.   

Download a copy of the full proposal.

Project status
This project is currently seeking technical and financial support.

Further information
For further information or to get involved with this project please contact Andy Moores at CIRIA.