Bane NORs UDK02 project earns BREEAM Infrastructure Excellent rating CQA 793 case study

10 July 2024

Bane NOR's UDK02 project earns BREEAM Infrastructure Excellent rating

Bane NOR's UDK02 culvert and soil tunnel, part of InterCity expansion, achieves BREEAM Infrastructure Excellent rating with innovative sustainability measures.

Overview

Bane NOR, in collaboration with Veidekke Entreprenør AS, has completed the UDK02 project, a crucial part of the InterCity railway expansion from Drammen to Kobbervikdalen. The project achieved a BREEAM Infrastructure Excellent rating, showcasing innovative sustainability solutions in railway infrastructure development.

About

Bane NOR, Norway's state-owned railway infrastructure manager, partnered with Veidekke Entreprenør AS to construct a cut-and-cover tunnel and soil tunnel running under the city of Drammen, aiming to improve regional connectivity and reduce travel times.

Background

The UDK02 project is part of the larger InterCity initiative, which aims to expand the railway network connecting regional cities such as Tønsberg and Drammen to Oslo. This project is the first Bane NOR project to achieve a BREEAM Infrastructure certification, setting a new standard for sustainable railway construction in Norway.

Challenges

The project faced significant challenges due to its urban location in Drammen city centre. The team had to carefully manage community relations, noise, dust, and vibrations while working within limited site space. Additionally, complex logistics and materials storage issues had to be addressed due to the constrained urban environment.

Solutions

The BREEAM Infrastructure scheme provided a more comprehensive approach to sustainability than the ISO-14001 management system and guided the implementation of many innovative solutions, including:

Optimisation of jet grouting works and tunnel profile design to reduce CO2 emissions
Incorporation of fossil-free and emissions-free energy carriers
Extensive reuse of excavated soils on-site (43,000 m3)- Implementation of digital tools for accurate material forecasting and planning
Use of local groundwater for construction activities to minimise potable water consumption
Regular community engagement through various communication channels

Benefits

The project achieved impressive sustainability metrics, including:

55% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the initial design (58,900,000 kgCO2 equivalent)
31% of total material used was reused (43,000 m3)
100% of waste diverted from landfill (22,400 tonnes)
Minimal unused materials due to efficient planning
Improved community relations through regular engagement and enhancements

The BREEAM Infrastructure process encouraged a more comprehensive approach to sustainability, incorporating social aspects and providing an objective measurement of the project's performance. It also fostered a mindset change within the organisation, promoting a focus on opportunities and benefits rather than just environmental risks.

Lise Backer, Project Manager, Bane NOR

Bane NOR is very pleased with the excellent results in the project. Encouraging more people to take the train contributes to increased sustainability. We have also documented that construction work is becoming increasingly environmentally friendly. Through the certification process, we've gained greater knowledge and understanding of decisions along the way, further enhancing sustainability.

– Lise Backer, Project Manager, Bane NOR