The maximisation of the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in the Greek construction industry

The use of secondary and recycled materials in the construction industry has become an essential method to implement sustainable development in the construction industry. The use of asphalt planings, which is derived from the replacement of deteriorated road pavements, as an alternative construction material to build reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) converts waste into an asset. Its use contributes to the global objective of sustainable development through protection of the environment by prudent use of natural resources. Notwithstanding the benefits, the progress in using RAP has been relatively slow in many countries. Several barriers inhibit the use of RAP to a varying degree across the globe. Literature has provided evidence that the effects of these barriers are influenced by technical and non-technical environmental factors which vary from country to country. The use of RAP in the Greek construction industry is very low; this paper therefore aims at identifying the barriers inhibiting the use of RAP in Greece and to establish how they are affected by the environmental factors identified in literature. The collection of data was based on the critical appraisal of the literature and the use of structured interviews with key stakeholders in Greece. The paper made recommendations on how the level of recycling of asphalt planings could be improved in the Greek construction industry.