Life cycle assessment and design methodology of sustainable grs structures using marginal fill and high performances draining geogrids

¹ Officine Maccaferri S.p.a, Bologna, Italy E-mail: f.trovato@maccaferri.com, web page: www.maccaferri.com
² Maccaferri Middle East, Dubai, United Arab Emirates E-mail: p.jayakrishnan@maccaferri.com, web page: www.maccaferri.com/ae

Abstract

Traditional Geosynthetics Reinforced Soil (GRS) systems often use high-quality, expensive imported granular fill as structural backfill. Limited local availability of such fill leads to resource depletion and increased carbon emissions from quarrying. The construction industry is now seeking sustainable alternatives to maintain GRS integrity while mitigating environmental impacts. The use of locally available marginal fill offers a sustainable solution, conserving natural resources, reducing waste and disposal costs, and lowering the carbon footprint. When combined with high-performance draining geogrids that integrate reinforcement with drainage, this approach enhances both environmental sustainability and structural performance. The dual function of this system improves the longevity and stability of structures, reducing maintenance needs and playing a key role in project life cycle assessment. This study presents a detailed comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) between traditional reinforced slopes and environmentally friendly GRS structures, providing information on structural design methodology to boost confidence in using marginal fills for reinforced soil systems.