The municipality is going greener – here’s how we’re improving our roadworks
In the coming years, Maastricht will be carrying out major road maintenance. We’re committed to using cleaner machines for the job. That’s why we’re challenging contractors to move away from old diesel equipment. You might already notice electric tools or hydrogen-powered asphalt spreaders on the streets. This reduces harmful emissions like CO2 and fine dust, which is better for both the city and its residents.
Over the next few years, the municipality will renew many streets, including new asphalt, pavements, and drainage systems. “We outsource this work to road construction companies,” explains Marco Fröhling, team manager for city infrastructure and construction. “They submit a plan detailing how they will carry out the project and its cost. We award the contract based on the Economically Most Advantageous Tender (Economisch Meest Voordelige Inschrijving, EMVI), meaning we consider not just price but also the quality of their approach. How the work is done matters to us.”
Cleaner machines
This year, the municipality has placed greater emphasis on clean and emission-free construction, which benefits both the environment and public health. Marco: “We’re encouraging contractors to use cleaner equipment—machines and tools that don’t release pollutants. For smaller hand tools, like saws, this is already mandatory. For larger machinery, it’s more complicated. We understand that replacing equipment is costly and can’t happen all at once, especially for smaller contractors. So, we’re encouraging it but not yet making it a requirement.”
Hydrogen and electric
However, more contractors are already using cleaner machines, which also reduce noise pollution. This summer, you might have seen an electric asphalt machine in action, and in September, electric drills were used for manhole work. There’s also been the use of an electric excavator, a hydrogen-powered asphalt spreader, and a silent electric crane delivering stone materials. The growing use of biodiesel HVO100 instead of regular diesel is another positive step forward.
Looking ahead to 2035
In some cases, only one or two contractors might bid without offering emission-free equipment because they don’t have it yet or are using it elsewhere at the same time. “This is a risk we face as long as we don’t make cleaner machinery mandatory. But by 2035, that will change. The goal is that most machinery will be emission-free by then.” Marco is optimistic about reaching this target. “As things stand, it’s achievable, which is great news for both the environment and the residents of Maastricht!”
#MissionZeroMaastricht
Caring for our environment, making conscious choices, and living more sustainably. That’s what #MissionZeroMaastricht is all about. Many residents and businesses in Maastricht are already on board — and seeing success! Are you with us?
