An innovative framework for selecting sustainable options to reduce the risk of soil erosion and environmental pollution incidents on road construction sites

It is widely accepted that silt pollution originating from disturbed exposed ground associated with construction sites is a contributing factor in the degradation of the water environment. A recent major highways construction project in Scotland resulted in releases of silt-rich water into ecologically sensitive watercourses which was followed by enforcement action by the Environmental Regulator. The review of current literature revealed a lack of clearly defined best-practice guidance as one of the contributing factors
faced by contractors in terms of minimising the risk of pollution to the water environment during large scale construction projects. Without suitable, relevant and readily available reference material, contractors or their representatives are faced with the ongoing challenge of selecting appropriate control and treatment options targeted to site-specific characteristics. For this study, we collaborated with stakeholders involved in major highways construction projects, to identify the sources of best-practice guidance and ascertain any perceived limitations within them. The results comprise the identification of necessary key parameters required for successful and efficient runoff control and treatment of sediment contaminated water during earthwork construction. Based on the results of this study, an innovative framework is proposed which will aid in the selection of sustainable options best suited for local environmental variables and specific construction activities.