Preliminary Life Cycle Assessment and Environmental Impact Evaluation of RC Bridge Deck: A Case Study in Norway

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has emerged as a prominent methodology for assessing the environmental performance of infrastructure projects. In the bridge infrastructure industry, one of the challenges is to consider environmentally friendly alternatives that minimize resource consumption and reduce environmental impacts. By incorporating LCA into the decision-making process, stakeholders can identify the most sustainable materials and construction techniques, aiming to mitigate the carbon footprint of bridge projects. This includes exploring options such as using recycled or low-carbon materials. This study presents an LCA conducted on a reinforced concrete bridge deck in Norway to assess its environmental impact on global warming potential. The LCA methodology analyzes the production stage, construction phase, end of life, and Module D and provides valuable insights into the environmental performance of different alternatives. The evaluation considered key environmental indicators of greenhouse gas emissions. By examining the life cycle of the bridge, the study provides valuable insights into environmental hotspots and opportunities for sustainable improvements. The findings contribute to informed decision-making for bridge design, construction, and maintenance, aligning with Norway's commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. The research emphasizes the importance of integrating LCA as a standard practice in bridge projects to reduce ecological footprints and preserve natural resources. The outcomes of this study serve as a foundation for policymakers, engineers, and designers to promote sustainable practices in bridge infrastructure development in Norway.