Why Sustainable Infrastructure matters for Active Travel
As the global shift towards sustainable mobility accelerates, engineers are at the forefront of designing infrastructure that supports active travel – cycling, walking, and other low-impact modes of transport. Sustainable infrastructure is no longer aspirational; it’s achievable through informed design choices and responsible supply chain management.
The role of access and drainage solutions in sustainable design
Access and drainage systems are often overlooked in sustainability discussions, yet they play a critical role in reducing carbon footprint, enhancing safety, and ensuring long-term performance. Certified, high-performing solutions – especially those backed by Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) – enable engineers to meet green procurement standards while maintaining functionality and durability.
Design considerations for kerb inlet drainage in active travel infrastructure
Kerb inlet drainage is essential for cycle lanes and pedestrian zones. Its design directly impacts safety, water management, and urban integration. Key considerations to evaluate when selecting products include:
Efficient Surface Water Management
- Rapid drainage: Prevents skidding and hydroplaning by capturing water at the carriageway edge;
- Multidirectional flow handling: Crucial in urban environments with complex gradients.
Pedestrian and Urban Integration
- Flush installation: Minimises trip hazards and improves accessibility;
- Aesthetic continuity: Supports seamless integration into urban design.
Maintenance and longevity
- Debris resistance: Captive hinges and raised patterns reduce clogging;
- Modular systems: Simplify upgrades and future replacements.
Safety and ergonomics in drainage design
When designing access for active mobility, engineers must consider:
- Traffic intensity: Ensuring durability under varying loads;
- Ergonomics: Supporting operators handling and safe interaction;
- Security: Preventing unauthorised access and ensuring structural integrity.
Sustainability through specification
EJ’s engineered access solutions – including cycle-friendly kerb drainage systems – are designed with sustainability and safety in mind:
- Cycle-safe slot designs for small-wheeled traffic;
- High-capacity waterway systems for rapid drainage;
- Non-slip surfaces with raised patterns to prevent hazards from debris accumulation.
With EPD-backed products and compliance to EN 124:2015, engineers can specify solutions that align with environmental goals and regulatory standards.
https://www.igbc.ie/epd-search/
Let’s talk sustainability
As towns and cities worldwide adopt sustainable mobility options, the development of cycling networks and active travel infrastructure has become a key pillar of modern city planning. Engineers are uniquely positioned to influence outcomes through material choices and design strategies.
Specifications that include certified, high performing access and drainage solutions can play a critical role in reducing carbon footprint, enhancing safety, and ensuring long-term performance
EJ has more than 140 years of experience delivering certified access solutions for modern infrastructure. If you're exploring ways to integrate sustainability into your projects, we invite you to join one of our Lunch & Learn sessions. These are tailored for engineering teams and offer practical insights into product selection, lifecycle impact, and performance standards.
Contact us to schedule a session and discover how engineered access solutions can support your sustainability goals.