Constraints and barriers to the application of geosynthetics

This paper outlines the current state of practice in the UK with regard to the use of geosynthetics in construction projects. It examines the awareness that geotechnical engineers possess about the technical and sustainability (i.e. reduced CO2) advantages that geosynthetics can provide over traditional construction techniques, and the barriers to their increased use. A survey of UK International Geosynthetic Society (IGS) Corporate Sponsors was carried out to understand the perceived constraints and barriers to increased early stage inclusion of geosynthetic based design solutions, and to obtain views on the current awareness of the UK construction industry of the sustainability benefits. The findings from the survey highlight a lack of clarity in the guidance on fill material provided in the literature. The survey results also showed that main barriers to the use of geosynthetics were education and the conservative approach of consultants.