ABSTRACT
This study investigates the correlation between the embodied carbon of asphalt mixes, as reported in Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), and the life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of flexible pavement designs under changing climate conditions. Using future climate projections, two asphalt mixes were evaluated under varying climate exposures in two Canadian provinces: a standard mix and a mix incorporating a more climate-adapted binder containing styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS). Life cycle assessments (LCA) were conducted by incorporating different maintenance strategies and considering the long-term impacts of climate change on pavement durability. Results showed that the SBS binder extended pavement service life, reducing maintenance needs and overall life cycle GHG emissions. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating climate resilience into pavement design to enhance pavement performance and minimize life cycle GHG emissions. They also highlight the value of using both EPDs and pavement performance data to make informed decarbonization decisions.
