41 Instead of traditional multi-part
systems, utilising combined products – which integrate multiple functions into a single unit – immediately reduces the total volume of resources and products required on-site. The impact is even greater when these products are manufactured from circular materials designed with their end-of-life in mind. Combined surface water management
solutions manufactured from recycled and recyclable polymers present a more adaptable alternative. From local material sourcing through to installation and eventual recovery for reuse, their overall energy demand is considerably lower. Lightweight, modular components reducing dependence on heavy machinery and the associated use of fossil fuels, also increasing lay speed. At the same time, recycled polymer systems demonstrate enhanced durability when exposed to extreme weather conditions, outperforming many traditional materials in demanding environments. The cost question the question of cost continues to loom over sustainability conversations. The industry’s progress toward Net Zero is currently stalled by a focus on upfront product costs rather than operational reality. Sustainable lightweight products are faster to install and safer to handle. When the reduced reliance on heavy machinery and the drastic decrease in man-hours are factored in, the ‘expensive’ sustainable choice frequently emerges as the most commercially viable option on the site. Policy, procurement and whole life thinking Today’s public sector projects demand drainage solutions that not only perform hydraulically but also support wider sustainability and accessibility goals. Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are increasingly used to analyse the environmental impact of construction materials, from manufacture and transport through to installation and end- of-life. These tools are helping designers and contractors make more educated decisions, particularly as government policy and funding plans place growing emphasis on low-carbon, recycled content and circular economy principles. Duraproducts has seen sustained
demand for drainage systems that align with both performance and environmental expectations. Within this context, sustainability in
surface water management extends beyond the movement of water itself. It requires careful consideration of the materials used, how they are sourced, installed and ultimately recovered or reused. Recycled and recyclable polymer materials offer a compelling alternative in this respect, combining lower energy demand with durability and adaptability in use. By supporting reduced carbon impact throughout the lifecycle of infrastructure assets, polymer-based solutions demonstrate how sustainable drainage can be achieved through a more holistic approach to design and material selection. Case study: Delivering sustainable drainage for active travel in Cambridge The role of sustainable drainage in enabling environmentally responsible transport infrastructure is demonstrated through Duraproducts’ long-standing collaboration with the Greater Cambridge Partnership. Since 2019, the company has supplied shallow linear kerb and drainage systems to a range of projects across Cambridge, supporting the delivery of transport solutions designed for the needs of growing urban populations. A current scheme on Milton Road,
Cambridge, represents a pioneering initiative for the region, incorporating recycled drainage systems alongside standard and traditional kerbing within varied road and pavement details. Product selection focused on low carbon footprint and high recycled content, helping to reduce resource consumption, energy use and installation demands from delivery through to on-site logistics. Earlier work on a 1.5km project
along Histon Road, Cambridge, further combined kerb and surface drainage system capable of managing rainfall and busy urban environment. Variable kerb heights were incorporated to facilitate access while clearly delineating routes for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicle drainage design can contribute to safer, more legible public spaces.
As climate pressures intensify and public sector sustainability expectations continue to rise, surface water drainage will remain a critical consideration in infrastructure design. Solutions that embodied carbon, reduced installation impact and inclusive design principles assets. Through innovation, collaboration and a focus on recycled materials, the public sector can deliver safer, greener and more resilient infrastructure for the future.
WD242
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