Jacobs, in partnership with AtkinsRéalis, has been selected by National Highways to offer environmental technical services in the UK.
This collaboration aims to support National Highways’ Environmental Sustainability Strategy, which targets net-zero emissions by 2050 for England’s motorways, spanning 4,500 miles and major A roads.
The joint venture (JV) between AtkinsRéalis and Jacobs is said to play a pivotal role in supporting National Highways’ efforts to cut carbon emissions and improve biodiversity.
The three-year contract, awarded through National Highways’ Specialist Professional and Technical Services Framework, will see the JV offering expertise in designing lower-carbon roads and developing nature-based solutions.
The focus will also be on mitigating pollution, optimising resource and energy use, and ensuring roads are integrated into their surrounding landscapes.
Jacobs senior vice-president Richard Sanderson said: “Our integrated project delivery will be essential in supporting National Highways’ vision for a connected country and a thriving environment.
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By GlobalData“Leveraging our knowledge of the network and the supply chain, combined with our global environmental and sustainability capabilities, we are committed to helping National Highways foster a resilient natural environment, reduce carbon emissions and support community well-being.”
AtkinsRéalis Strategic Highways & Regional Roads, UK & Ireland market director Peter Baynham said: “This appointment builds on our extensive environmental work with National Highways, including our ongoing collaboration with Jacobs and specialist supply chain.
“This combined expertise enables us to engineer roads which benefit both road users and the environment, continuing our work on sustainable infrastructure development across England’s highways.”
A collaborative delivery approach is central to the joint venture’s strategy. It will involve engaging with a diverse supply chain, including Jacobs’ strategic partner PA Consulting, small and medium-sized enterprises, and academic institutions.
Jacobs and AtkinsRéalis have an eight-year history of partnership under the same framework.
Both companies are also part of the Roads Research Alliance and have achieved PAS 2080:2023 verification, which recognises their commitment to carbon management in infrastructure.
Earlier this month, Jacobs was appointed by the Bonneville Power Administration in the US to provide engineering and advisory services for the improvement of the Grand Coulee hydroelectric dam.
