Dynamic Life Cycle Assessment of Low-Carbon Transition in Asphalt Pavement Maintenance: A Multi-Scale Case Study Under China’s Dual-Carbon Target

Luyao Zhang, Wei Tian, Bobin Wang and Xiaomin Dai ()
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Luyao Zhang: School of International Business, Xinjiang University, 499 Xibei Road, Urumqi 830091, China
Wei Tian: Xinjiang Jiaotou Engineering Technology Development Co., Ltd., 664 Yashan South Road, Shaybak District, Urumqi 830001, China
Bobin Wang: Department of Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering, Université Laval 2325, rue de l’Université, Québec, QC G1V0A6, Canada
Xiaomin Dai: School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Xinjiang University, 777 Huarui Street, Urumqi 830017, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 14, 1-26

Abstract: Against the backdrop of China’s “dual-carbon” initiative, this study innovatively applies a process-based life cycle assessment (PLCA) methodology, meticulously tracking energy and carbon flows across material production, transportation, and maintenance processes. By comparing six asphalt pavement maintenance technologies in Xinjiang, the research reveals that milling and resurfacing (MR) exhibits the highest energy consumption 250,809 MJ/10 3 m 2 ) and carbon emissions (15,095.67 kg CO 2 /10 3 m 2 ), while preventive techniques like hot asphalt grouting reduce emissions by up to 87%. The PLCA approach uncovers a critical insight: 40–60% of total emissions originate from the raw material production phase, with cement and asphalt identified as primary contributors. This granular analysis, unique in regional road maintenance research, challenges traditional assumptions and emphasizes the necessity of upstream intervention. By contrasting reactive and preventive strategies, the study validates that early-stage maintenance aligns seamlessly with circular economy principles. Tailored to a local arid climate and vast transportation network, the study concludes that prioritizing preventive maintenance, adopting low-carbon materials, and optimizing logistics can significantly decarbonize road infrastructure. These region-specific strategies, underpinned by the novel application of PLCA, not only provide actionable guidance for local policymakers but also offer a replicable framework for sustainable road development worldwide, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical decarbonization efforts.

Keywords: life cycle assessment; highway maintenance; energy consumption; carbon emissions; emission reduction (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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