Interview with Geoff Allan

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters by IPWEA, we sit down with Dr. Geoff Allan CEO from Austroads to explore the critical issues and innovative solutions in road infrastructure across Australia and New Zealand. Geoff shares insights into the impact of climate change on road resilience, the integration of sustainable materials like recycled plastics and rubber, and the advancements in road safety technologies. We delve into the future of electric vehicle infrastructure and the challenges of maintaining extensive road networks. Join us for a comprehensive discussion on building a sustainable, safe, and resilient transport network for the future.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Introduction of Geoff Owen, CEO of Austroads, and overview of the organization.
• Historical context and formation of Austroads, its role, and key functions.
• Impact of climate change on infrastructure and measures for resilience in road design.
• Challenges and opportunities in reducing carbon emissions in road construction and maintenance.
• Strategies for retrofitting existing roads to handle extreme weather events.
• Discussion on the need for increased funding for road maintenance and asset management.
• Utilization of sustainable materials in road construction, including the use of recycled materials.
• Efforts to improve road safety through low-cost interventions and advanced technologies.
• Future of roads and transport, including the impact of electric vehicles and necessary infrastructure.
• Geoff Owen's career journey and the significance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in the industry.

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