European Operators welcome ACCAM Infrastructure Tools at ASECAP Days
At the 52nd ASECAP Days conference in May 2025, the International Road Federation (IRF) presented an innovative approach to readying infrastructure for automated mobility. Gonzalo Alcaraz, IRF Acting Director General, introduced the Augmented CCAM PDI Support Classification Schema to 80 European transport specialists. This practical framework helps road operators prioritise infrastructure investments for Connected and Automated Mobility (CCAM).
The EU-funded AUGMENTED CCAM project, coordinated by FEHRL and developed by 27 partners across Europe, addresses a critical challenge: with limited budget, operators cannot upgrade all physical infrastructure (such as road markings and sensors) and digital systems (such as data networks) simultaneously. The schema resolves this by systematically categorising 81 essential elements, from road surface conditions to traffic management systems, and evaluating their impact on safety, traffic flow, and vehicle automation readiness.
Attendees responded enthusiastically to the new approach. One of the participants noted: “This framework finally gives us a methodology to target investments where they matter most. We can now enhance safety for all road users while strategically preparing for automated vehicles.” The session highlighted how the tool prevents inefficient spending and aligns upgrades with EU priorities such as the Green Deal.
Two practical tools operationalise the schema: an Infrastructure Readiness Assessment Tool enabling operators to evaluate roads and simulate upgrades, and a Collaborative Feedback Platform allowing stakeholders to refine the framework.
With transport authorities already testing these resources, the project marks significant progress toward seamless CCAM integration. As one participant observed: “This moves us from theory to actionable strategy, exactly what operators need.”
The AUGMENTED CCAM project receives funding from the European Union and the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
International Road Federation (IRF)
Ms Lara Delutis
Communications Manager
ldelutis@irfofficial.org
www.irfofficial.org
CERTH
Ms Maria Gkemou
General Director of Central Directorate
mgemou@certh.gr
www.certh.gr
FEHRL
Mr Thierry Goger
Secretary General
thierry.goger@fehrl.org
www.fehrl.org
TRL Software’s iROADS Powers Malta’s Digital Leap in Road Asset Management
TRL Software has successfully rolled out a new digital pavement asset management system for Malta Transport called TM Roads, to enhance roadworks coordination and public transparency across the island’s transport network. The new TM Roads system is a customised version of TRL Software’s cloud-based Asset Management software, iROADS, configured specifically for Malta Transport. It is a commercially available off-the-shelf platform designed to manage various infrastructure assets.
The new platform, TM Roads, marks a significant shift from manual road permitting processes to a fully digital, centralised system designed to streamline communication between government bodies, utilities, contractors and the public. The initiative is part of Malta’s broader “Reshaping Our Mobility” strategy, aimed at delivering smarter, more responsive transport infrastructure.
TRL’s flagship asset management software iROADS enables authorities to plan, monitor, and optimise road maintenance and construction activities in real-time through a single intelligent interface using multiple data sources. TM Roads is the first module in the platform to be implemented in Malta. This modular approach is perfect for local authorities managing a phased integration of multiple solutions into a single cloud-based Software as a Service platform that gives them huge efficiency savings.
“We’re proud to support the Government of Malta with our iROADS platform, helping to create a more coordinated, transparent and citizen-centric road network,” said Subu Kamal, Head of Product for TRL Software. “Our technology is designed to remove inefficiencies and empower infrastructure managers with the data they need to make faster, better decisions. Malta is now part of a growing group of forward-thinking nations transforming the way they manage roads.”
At the launch event, Malta’s Transport Minister Dr Chris Bonett described TM Roads as “an important step in a wider chain of solutions we are working towards,” reinforcing the government’s commitment to delivering tangible results for its citizens.
Kurt Farrugia, CEO of Transport Malta, added that the platform will improve communication with the public while reducing inconvenience to residents by providing timely, accurate information about upcoming works and permits.
This deployment extends TRL Software’s international footprint, joining similar iROADS implementations in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. It demonstrates how digital transformation is reshaping public sector infrastructure, with data and technology at the heart of smarter road networks.A version of iROADS, known as P-AMS, is used by National Highways to manage England’s strategic road network. In addition to supporting national infrastructure, iROADS is the ideal solution for local authorities seeking to manage their local road networks more effectively. iROADS is a suite of modules to support network operation.
Successful Introduction to Road Safety Audits Course Hosted in Qatar
The International Road Federation (IRF) successfully concluded a three-day Introduction to Road Safety Audits course in Doha, Qatar, from 25–27 May 2025. Organised jointly with the Qatar University’s Transportation and Traffic Safety Centre (TTS Centre) and the World Conference on Transport Research Society (WCTRS), the programme was hosted at the Le Méridien Hotel.
A total of 20 participants including highway engineers, traffic safety specialists and planners from Qatar’s public agencies and consulting firms took part. The course was led by Dr Wael K. M. Alhajyaseen (Associate Professor at Qatar University) and Miguel Ángel Serrano Santos (IRF Lead Trainer and UNOPS road safety specialist), who brought extensive global expertise to the training.
The course covered the full range of road safety audit (RSA) procedures and requirements. It emphasised the importance of conducting audits and implementing their recommendations to identify and address potential hazards on roads. Participants learned the latest methodologies and technologies for reducing traffic injury risk. The programme blended theoretical background with practical exercises, using examples from Qatar’s own road network to ensure that risk identification skills would be effective and impactful.
- Rigorous methodology: The programme stressed a thorough, systematic approach to road safety auditing as a cornerstone of preventing crashes.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Topics ranged from audit procedures and standards to effective implementation of safety recommendations.
- Practical focus: Real-world case studies and exercises, tailored to Qatar’s road environment, helped participants apply their knowledge directly to local infrastructure.
- Expert instructors: International and local road safety specialists shared best practices and guided attendees through hands-on analysis.
- Certification: All 20 participants earned an official IRF training certificate upon completing the course.
Participants and organisers emphasised that this capacity-building initiative will directly contribute to safer roads in Qatar. “This course demonstrates the significance of a rigorous approach to road safety audits, equipping engineers with the expert knowledge needed to keep our roads safe.” — Commented Miguel Ángel Serrano Santos, IRF Lead Trainer.
Dr Wael K. M. Alhajyaseen, Qatar Transportation and Traffic Safety Centre added “Capacity building and collaboration are key to improving road safety. By working together, local authorities and international experts can share knowledge and strengthen skills to reduce traffic risks.”
“IRF is committed to advancing safer roads through knowledge exchange and technical training. This course exemplifies our mission to empower transport professionals with the latest road safety expertise.” — Gonzalo Alcaraz, Acting Director General of IRF
YOURS at ITF 2025: Youth Voices Calling for Safer Vehicles and Smarter Policies
YOURS – Youth for Road Safety – joined global leaders in Leipzig, Germany, for the 2025 Summit of the International Transport Forum (ITF), the world’s largest gathering of transport ministers and mobility experts. Throughout the Summit, YOURS brought forward bold and urgent youth perspectives to ensure road safety remains a global priority.
Calling for stronger global vehicle safety standards
As part of our advocacy efforts, YOURS joined over 30 organisations in signing a joint letter to Dr. Juan Carlos Muñoz, President of the 2025 ITF Summit and Chile’s Minister of Transport. The letter urged ministers to protect and strengthen global vehicle safety regulations, not weaken them.
The key asks included:
1. Encouraging Trade Ministers to avoid negotiating vehicle safety standards in trade deals
2. Supporting global collaboration through the UN World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations
3. Ensuring that recent progress in safety standards is reinforced and not reversed
This action, in collaboration with partners like Global NCAP, reinforced our shared belief: safer vehicles save lives, especially young lives, and must be prioritised globally.
Bringing the funding conversation to life
YOURS also took part in the UN Road Safety Fund Media Event, which brought together senior officials and advocates to spotlight the urgent need for increased and sustained financing for road safety.
The session featured:
- Jean Todt, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety
- Tatiana Molcean, UNECE Executive Secretary
- Ministers from Chile, Ghana, and Slovenia
- Pierre-Martin Huet, Sustainability & Impact Director, Michelin
- Moderation by Nneka Henry, Head of the UN Road Safety Fund
The event showcased how global partnerships and funding are already delivering results in countries such as Chile and Ghana, and why investing in proven road safety measures must remain a global priority.
Influencing the next Decade of Sustainable Transport
YOURS was invited to contribute to the closed consultation on the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035), alongside key global actors including the Ministry of Transport of Chile, ITF, UN DESA, ADB, UNECE, ECLAC, Walk21, iRAP, TUMI, and GIZ.
They brought forward one clear message:
Young people must be recognised not just as users, but as co-designers of transport systems.
YOURS inputs focused on three core areas:
- Road safety at the centre:
Integrate Vision Zero and the Safe System Approach across all mobility plans, and ensure infrastructure investments are safe by design. - Transport as a health and climate issue:
Highlight road safety co-benefits in national climate goals and promote youth-led solutions like cycling and walking infrastructure. - Meaningful youth participation and accountability:
Institutionalise youth roles in planning, monitoring and reporting mechanisms, and track youth-related targets with disaggregated data and clear indicators.
They also called for the creation of a Youth Movement for the Decade, co-led with civil society, to keep youth at the heart of sustainable transport action.
The message YOURS is carrying forward:
- Safe streets and vehicles must be a non-negotiable part of every transport agenda
- Global safety standards should be protected and strengthened for future generations
- Youth are not just beneficiaries they are key stakeholders, actively shaping the future of transport
From policy to planning to financing, YOURS continues to push for a transport future where road safety and youth leadership go hand in hand.
IRF Joins Global Transport Leaders at the ITF 2025 Summit
From 21 to 23 May 2025, over 1,200 delegates from more than 80 countries gathered in Leipzig for the annual International Transport Forum (ITF) Summit, the world’s foremost platform for high-level discussions on transport policy. As in previous years, the International Road Federation (IRF) took an active part, contributing to critical exchanges on the resilience of global transport systems.
Building on the letter of intent signed with the ITF at the 2024 Summit, IRF Acting Director General, Gonzalo Alcaraz, met with ITF Secretary-General Young Tae Kim on the final day of this year’s event to advance the collaboration. Discussions focused on the development of a forthcoming Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will frame joint efforts including capacity-building programmes, technical cooperation, and data-driven initiatives aimed at strengthening road transport systems worldwide.
On Wednesday morning, the IRF co-organised its first side event during the Summit, “Transport System Resilience, Connectivity and Diversification in the Face of Climate Change and Other Global Shocks”, alongside Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Life-Links, Kuehne Climate Center, Oris Materials Intelligence and the Asian Transport Observatory. Opening remarks from the IRF Acting Director General underlined that road networks face ever-greater threats from extreme weather, shifting climate patterns and geopolitical unrest.
That afternoon, the IRF convened a second session on “Effective Qualifications-Based and Gender-Responsive Procurement as a Tool to Enhance the Resilience of Transport Systems”, in collaboration with the Union for the Mediterranean and the International Federation of Consulting Engineers. Delegates examined how low- and middle-income countries, despite securing nearly one third of all climate finance, still grapple with an investment gap in transport infrastructure. The IRF contribution emphasised that Qualifications-Based Selection ensures that technical expertise, innovation and value for money prevail over short-term cost-cutting. In parallel, the session explored how procurement processes can be adapted to combat gender-based violence through responsible contracting, accountability measures and inclusive tendering practices.
The discussions in Leipzig provided a valuable platform to share practical approaches to infrastructure adaptation, digital transformation and fair procurement. Issues that remain central as we move towards COP30 in Brazil.
ORIS Materials Intelligence Shows How AI Can Minimise Carbon & Costs at Scale
ORIS Materials Intelligence, a digital startup pioneering sustainable design for roads and other linear infrastructure, unveiled in its 2024 Impact Report key findings, the power of AI and geospatial insights to drive decarbonisation, circularity, and cost-efficiency at scale in road infrastructure. This report underscores how digital intelligence can be a transformative lever for infrastructure planning, unlocking climate and financial benefits without compromising performance.
Finding #1: AI and Data Science to Mitigate Road Construction GHG Emissions
ORIS identified levers to avoid over 3 million tonnes of CO₂ eq. in 2024 through 16 road projects
Through the 16 consulting projects achieved in 2024, the startup used its innovative AI-powered digital platform to identify for its clients levers and solutions that would avoid 3.1 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions in road projects—equivalent to the annual emissions of nearly one million cars.
At a time when the road sector accounts for more than 12% of global CO₂ emissions (source: WRI), ORIS’s AI and data-driven approach is demonstrating that digitisation can cut carbon at scale—without increasing project costs.
"Construction materials account for 85% of road construction carbon emissions and impact 60% of its costs. Our platform puts that knowledge in the hands of decision-makers—early, accurately, and at scale," said Nicolas Miravalls, ORIS Materials Intelligence CEO and co-founder. “With ORIS, sustainability is not an afterthought—it’s built in from day one.”
Finding #2: Recycled Materials: AI to Fast-Track Circularity
ORIS supported clients to identify how to reuse existing materials in their projects and preserve up to 4.4 million tonnes in primary resources in 2024
This figure illustrates the tangible impact of embracing circular economy principles in infrastructure development. Using its platform, ORIS supports clients in identifying the reuse of excavation materials from one part of the project to another. The ORIS platform also references over 44,000 material suppliers, including 7% of sites with recycled materials.
Finding #3: Data Shows that Sustainable Infrastructure Is not More Expensive
Key finding: ORIS helped identity savings amounting to $24 million for its clients in 2024
Contrary to the belief that sustainability increases costs, ORIS’s data-driven models identified combined budget savings of $24 million for clients in 2024. These were achieved by selecting smarter material combinations and favouring more durable solutions, reducing the need for early maintenance and repair. The evidence confirms that environmental and financial performance can go hand in hand.
Finding #4: A New Approach to Road Climate Resilience for Communities
More than 18,000 km of roads assessed for climate resilience, thanks to an innovative approach combining climate data, road vulnerability and socio-economic impact.
In 2024, ORIS assessed 18,553 km of roads for climate resilience, providing data-driven insights to build infrastructure that can withstand climate challenges with its innovative approach. In a significant case study in Central Asia, 7,765 km of road networks were assessed, identifying that 25% of these roads were highly vulnerable to climate hazards, impacting 30% of the local population. This AI-powered climate resilience assessment highlights how advanced methodologies can quantify the vulnerability of extensive infrastructure networks to climate change and understand the potential impact on communities, informing crucial adaptation measures such as material upgrades and improved drainage.
“We’re proving that digital tools can unlock massive carbon savings—while improving cost-efficiency and resilience,” added Renaud de Montaignac, ORIS Materials Intelligence COO and co-founder. “This is how the sector can truly build for the future.”
ORIS Material Intelligence 2024 Key Impact Figures:
• 1,400+ users and 44,000+ material suppliers referenced on the ORIS platform
• ORIS projects led to identify levers and solutions enabling its clients to:
o Avoid 3.1 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions
o Spare 4.4 million tonnes of raw materials with circular options
o Optimise budgets with $24 million in project savings identified
o Anticipate climate resilience for 18,553 km of roads around the world, with ORIS’ unique methodology
• To achieve these results, ORIS’ own GHG emissions represented less than 0.005% of identified reductions
ORIS Materials Intelligence is an AI-powered and data-driven digital platform dedicated to improving the sustainability of linear infrastructure—such as roads and railways—by optimising the use of construction materials. Using artificial intelligence, life cycle assessment, and geospatial analysis, ORIS helps engineers, contractors, and public authorities design more sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective infrastructure. From measuring and reducing carbon and raw material use to increasing climate resilience and circularity, ORIS provides the sector the tools needed to rethink how infrastructure is planned and built to meet the challenges of climate change. In 2024, ORIS became a Société à Mission in the French legal sense, embedding its purpose—driving sustainability, efficiency, and inclusion in infrastructure—into its legal structure.
New TRL Report Reveals What’s Holding Back AI in the Transport Sector – and How to Fix It
Artificial Intelligence is often seen as the answer to everything in a digital future – but when it comes to transport, the reality is more complex. While many industries are rapidly embracing AI, the transport sector is struggling to keep pace.
To understand why, TRL brought together over 60 stakeholders from across the public, private, and academic sectors in a series of workshops. The findings are now published in a new report: “Bridging the Gap: Overcoming the Barriers to AI Adoption in Transport.”
The report identifies the major obstacles preventing AI from reaching its full potential in transport, including:
- Lack of infrastructure to support AI applications
- Low levels of AI literacy and limited workforce upskilling
- Public distrust of AI-enabled systems
- Concerns about environmental impact
Despite these barriers, the consensus is clear: AI offers significant potential to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability in transport – if deployed thoughtfully and at scale.
The report highlights practical insights from real-world attempts to use AI and concludes with five key opportunities for the sector to enable faster, wider adoption. These recommendations provide a shared framework for decision-makers and innovators across the industry.
NTRO Recognised for 20 Years of Membership with the International Road Federation
On 8 May 2025, during the NTRO International Technical Conference in Melbourne, Gonzalo Alcaraz, Acting Director General of the International Road Federation (IRF), presented a commemorative plaque to Michael Caltabiano, CEO of the National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO), acknowledging two decades of active membership and collaboration. Since joining the IRF in 2005, NTRO—formerly known as the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB)—has consistently contributed to global transport innovation.
The partnership has facilitated knowledge exchange, and the development of practical solutions aimed at enhancing road safety and sustainability worldwide. A significant milestone in this collaboration is the joint initiative launched in October 2024 to deliver training and accreditation for road safety auditors in Australia and New Zealand.
Supported by TotalEnergies, this programme enables NTRO-trained professionals to gain international accreditation and be listed in the IRF International Registry of Road Safety Auditors. The registry establishes clear, internationally recognised certification standards, ensuring consistency and quality in road safety audits globally. The partnership's roots trace back to 2010 when IRF and ARRB co-hosted a five-day Road Safety Auditor training course in New Delhi.
This programme focused on safety engineering and aimed to build capacity among road safety professionals in the region. Further strengthening the collaboration, Michael Caltabiano was elected to the IRF Board of Directors in 2020, and most recently, also elected to the IRF Executive Committee as IRF Vice-President. His appointments haves facilitated deeper engagement between the organisations, promoting the exchange of innovative practices and accelerating the implementation of advanced road technologies in Australia and beyond.
Reflecting on the enduring partnership, Michael Caltabiano stated: "NTRO is a proud IRF member, sharing Australia's knowledge and learning from the rest of the world as we develop better, safer, more sustainable roads. [...] We look forward to continuing on our journey together."
This recognition underscores the value of sustained collaboration in advancing global road safety and transport infrastructure. Membership with the IRF offers access to a wealth of resources, collaborative initiatives, and a platform to influence global transport policies. For more information, visit the IRF Membership page.