VTI develops manual for less wear and emissions

Wear of road markings release significant amounts of microplastics every year, contributing to environmental pollution and climate impact. But a new action plan is now available, setting out measures to reduce wear and hence the spread of microplastics.

“Microplastics” is a collective term for small fragments of plastic and rubber up to five millimetres in size. Research at VTI has shown that wear of road markings cause between 40 and 570 tonnes of microplastics to be released every year – amounts equivalent to other significant sources such as antifouling paint, artificial turf and exterior building paint.

In response, VTI researchers have developed an action plan aimed for those working with road markings, especially within Swedish municipalities. Available both in print and online, the action plan outlines practical, cost-effective measures to reduce wear and microplastic emissions. A number of relatively simple measures are available that can make a big difference.

“Less wear reduces emissions, but also cuts costs and climate impact as material consumption is reduced,” says VTI researcher Ida Järlskog.

The action plan contains a series of specific recommendations and tips and is structured into five key areas: procurement and regulations, design and execution, material properties, application and maintenance, and general measures for a better environment. Various initiatives in each of these areas may help to reduce wear and emissions.

In other words, the problem is multifaceted and impacts on a range of very different areas.

“Perhaps most importantly, clients need to ensure that the deliverables outlined in the contract such as proper preparatory work and the use of high quality materials are actually provided. The function and quality of the road markings should also be monitored over time. But in practice, this kind of follow-up is often overlooked mainly because there’s not enough time, and in many cases, not enough knowledge to do it properly says Ida Järlskog.

When it comes to procurement, it's important to set clear requirements for both price and quality. Sometimes, it may be enough for the client to state that the contract should go to the most economically advantageous offer, not just the cheapest one. This signals that quality is valued and creates incentives for the contractor to select materials of higher quality when they actually stand to benefit. Nowadays, price is the only thing that matters in the vast majority of cases.

In addition to the action plan, VTI has also published a detailed scientific report with the same structure as the guide, offering deeper insights. All resources are available on a dedicated VTI website, which will be updated as new findings emerge.

Translation: CBG