Comprehensive review on greenhouse gas emission assessment over the full life-cycle of pavement

Abstract

Recent studies on pavement greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have developed and applied various calculation methods and pavement life-cycle assessment (LCA) tools for different research objectives, phases included and assessment levels, exhibiting trade-offs in applicability, accuracy, and data availability. This study systematically reviews studies on pavement GHG emission sources and calculation methods, focusing on complex and controversial features. Pivotal questions including how different research objectives affect the choice of calculation methods, how the vague end-of-life of pavements affects the construction of calculation methods and the effect of uncertainty are explored. These present opportunities for further research. This study emphasizes the accuracy and generalizability of various research objectives and scenarios, aiming to provide a comprehensive reference for the conduct of the life-cycle inventory in pavement life-cycle assessment. It will help policymakers, the transportation sector, and other stakeholders in making more effective decisions on road sustainability, thereby contributing to the goal of net-zero emissions.