World’s best technology in a newly commissioned asphalt plant in Launceston will enable a significant increase in the use of recycled materials to build Tasmanian roads.

Downer’s new $10.5 million Tasmanian asphalt manufacturing facility was officially opened today and replaces an existing asphalt plant that’s reaching the end of its service life.

“Our two existing asphalt manufacturing facilities in Tasmania currently produce thousands of tonnes each year that is used to build and maintain roads right across the state,” said Downer’s Executive General Manager – National Operations, George Panagiotou.

“Now the new plant has been commissioned we are tripling our hourly production rate, enabling Downer to service customers more efficiently.”

Mr Panagiotou said the new facility brings considerable sustainability benefits for the Tasmanian community.

“It has a lower carbon emissions profile than the existing plant, through improved energy efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.

“It’s also capable of producing road surfacing products that incorporate a high proportion of recycled products. This includes Downer’s Reconophalt product, which incorporates waste glass, soft plastics and up to 30% reclaimed asphalt pavement.

“Using these waste products in road surfacing reduces reliance on virgin materials and delivers sustainability outcomes for the Tasmanian community.”

Construction of the new facility involved a temporary workforce of approximately 80 people, including contractors and service providers from the greater Launceston area. During its service life, the plant will support job security for the next 25 years for plant staff and will potentially result in more job creation in the north of the state.