Climate change
Queensland's climate is changing. Temperatures are increasing more rapidly than global and national averages. In the future Queensland's climate could become more extreme, with the potential for increases in droughts, heatwaves and heavy rainfall.
Along with this, Queensland's population continues to grow. Transport currently contributes 11.9% of total greenhouse gas emissions in Queensland. Roads are an essential part of the state's economy and overall development. In some parts of the state, roads are the only link between communities.
In some areas, traffic congestion is a growing concern. When vehicles enter a congested traffic stream, operation costs and trip travel times increase. This can potentially double greenhouse emissions.
Impacts of climate change on roads
An increase in the frequency of extremely high temperatures in areas already experiencing a hot climate could result in road surface damage. The damage includes pavement softening, traffic-related rutting and melting of older pavements.
In coastal areas, predicted higher sea levels combined with high tides and storm surges could result in increased flooding.
Climate change could affect virtually every aspect of the road network, the lifeblood of many Queensland communities.
Main Roads meets the climate challenge
Main Roads’ is tackling the climate change challenge in many ways.
Sustainable transport solutions are at the forefront of our decisions. The Department of Transport and Main Roads program of work outlines projects that support pedestrian ways, cycleways and public transport.
Main Roads works closely with community groups, environmental organisations and other government departments on sustainable transport.
Climate proofing roads
In managing the road network for now and the future is about addressing the impacts of climate change when planning the location of new infrastructure. This includes:
- designing for climate change
- allowances for an increase in sea level when building infrastructure in coastal areas.
The new Houghton Highway bridge in South East Queensland has been designed to withstand a 1-in-2000 year storm event, the first of its type in Australia. It will be 3.6 metres higher than the existing bridge.
Other initiatives
We are also:
- managing salinity in the design and delivery of roads
- evaluating and addressing air quality impacts on road projects
- maintaining fleet vehicles, plans and equipment according to the Australian Standards for air quality emissions
- using fibre composite materials in bridge building instead of timber
- using energy-efficient road lighting
- negotiating with other government departments to develop codes of practice when communities are effected by flooding.
Trees for tomorrow
Trees are the planet's lungs, and vegetation is essential for reducing the impacts of climate change. In some parts of Queensland, road corridors contain the only remnant vegetation and provide important wildlife corridors.
Road building and maintenance can impact on vegetation. From time to time it is necessary to clear vegetation as part of the construction process or to ensure the safety of road users.
Our trees for tomorrow commitment is about keeping vegetation clearance to a minimum and compensating for lost habitat by replanting activities.
Working with Greening Australia the department take an active role in planting trees for tomorrow.
Drivers can help too
Did you know that poor driving techniques can increase fuel consumption by 10–15%.
Here are some tips to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save you money.
- Check your tyre pressure as under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption.
- Undertake regular vehicle maintenance.
- Avoid wasting fuel, don't idle as this uses excess fuel.
- Only use air conditioning when it's really necessary.
- Choose the right gear for the conditions.
- Don't speed.
- Don't rev the engine unnecessarily.
- Minimise drag by keeping the windows closed, if possible. Remove heavy items from the boot and take off the roof racks when not in use.
- Plan your trip ahead. Try to avoid the peak periods. Consider leaving for work earlier or starting later.
- Use your car less. If you can, take public transport more often, or arrange car pooling to work or school.
Last updated: 14 August 2009
