The Eastern Busway Alliance in Auckland is setting new standards in sustainable construction with practical solutions that benefit people and the environment.

Constructed by ACCIONA, in alliance with Auckland Transport, Fletcher Construction, AECOM and Jacobs, the Busway team is using simple, practical ways to reduce waste, and protect local environments.

Alliance Project Director Andy Gibbard explains how small choices can add up to real, long-term benefits.

“Across the Eastern Busway Alliance, we’re focused on simple, practical decisions that reduce waste and protect the local environment,” Mr Gibbard said.

“By using flexible footpaths that support tree health and reusing materials on site to cut truck movements, these small choices deliver lasting benefits for people, places and nature.

Four sections of Porous Lane, a flexible rubber footpath made from up to 60% of locally sourced recycled tyres had been installed. This innovation protects established magnolia trees by adapting to root movement, reducing maintenance and providing safer, smoother paths for the community.

Reusing half a tonne of tyres in this way diverts waste from landfill and demonstrates how smart materials can help urban spaces and nature thrive together. Our team also collected hundreds of illegally dumped tyres, ensuring they were recycled and repurposed responsibly.

When the project called for riprap – large, dense rock used to protect structures from erosion, control weeds, provide access under flyovers and keep soil stable around bridge supports – the team saw a more sustainable option. They chose to repurpose surplus basalt available on site instead.

This choice reduced congestion, noise, and vibration, by avoiding hundreds of truck movements, while saving over 50 tonnes of carbon.

It shows how thoughtful construction practices can deliver sustainable outcomes while easing network impacts.

We are proud that these initiatives contribute to a greener Auckland and reflect our commitment to sustainable infrastructure that supports communities and protects local environments.