ABSTRACT
Urbanisation stands out as a significant global megatrend propelling economic growth. More than half of the world’s population lives in cities, and this number is projected to increase substantially by 2050. This rapid urbanisation poses significant challenges for cities, especially regarding infrastructure, with a particular focus on transportation infrastructure. Urban mobility projects are complex endeavours that involve and impact various stakeholders and involve lengthy planning and permitting processes.
Tackling tunnelling projects in urban environments presents a host of unique challenges. These include complex ground conditions, potential shallow ground cover, sensitive structures, extensive road networks, and active and abandoned foundations and underground structures. Additionally, the spatial constraints inherent in urban areas make it even more challenging to design underground structures and at the same time minimise disruption to existing buildings, surface traffic, and residents’ daily routines.
In addition to technical considerations, public project owners are increasingly focused on the environmental impact of their initiatives. As a result, designers and contractors are compelled to be innovative and seek solutions that enhance their projects’ overall carbon dioxide balance.
This article will elaborate on key design aspects related to geotechnics, geometry, site logistics, and excavation works, all through the lens of sustainability based on examples from Amberg Engineering’s projects in various European and Asian countries. The focus will be on the CO2 impact of the different designs, giving the reader an understanding of where the leverage is to design and build more environmentally friendly metro projects.
