CARBON FOOTPRINT ASSESSMENT OF THE MARDAN–SWABI LINK ROAD CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

This study assesses the carbon footprint linked to the development of a the Dualization of 42 km long Road from Mardan to Swabi roadway project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. In addition to assessing carbon offset through tree plantation programs, the goal was to measure the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from material manufacture, construction activities, and post-construction vehicle traffic. Furthermore, traffic-derived emissions were evaluated using average daily traffic measurements combined with fuel-based emission coefficients.  Investigations were also conducted into the potential for carbon sequestration provided by trees grown as part of the KP Billion Tree Tsunami campaign and other afforestation initiatives along the chosen road corridor. The findings indicated that the construction of the roadway resulted in significant carbon emissions, with approximately 5,803.9 tCO₂e attributable to construction materials. Additionally, an estimated 56,430.13 tCO₂e per year was associated with traffic-related emissions. In contrast, the total CO₂ offset through tree plantation was estimated at only 1,042.04 tCO₂e per year, highlighting a minimal mitigation effect relative to the overall emissions. Based on the results of the research, it is evident that road infrastructure considerably contributes to the escalation of carbon emissions, notwithstanding its essential role in fostering regional development. To facilitate environmental sustainability in forthcoming infrastructure enhancements, it advocates for the utilization of low-carbon materials, the adoption of advanced construction methodologies, and the amplification of afforestation initiatives.