The Rubberized Asphalt Foundation (RAF) has strengthened its position as a global driver of sustainable infrastructure by acting as a strategic partner at the Georgia Rubberized Asphalt Summit (GRAS 2026), held in Tbilisi. Hosted by Tegeta Green Planet in collaboration with Wasteless, the event brought together policymakers, engineers, and industry leaders to accelerate adoption of rubberized asphalt in emerging markets, particularly across the Caucasus.

RAF’s involvement signals a clear push to expand its international footprint, with Georgia identified as a high-potential entry point for scaling circular infrastructure solutions. A key figure in this effort is Shalva Akhvlediani, whose dual role as local host representative and RAF board member highlights the organization’s model of linking global expertise with regional implementation. His emphasis on partnership as a catalyst for progress reflects the broader strategy underpinning RAF’s expansion.

The summit featured contributions from leading experts including Jorge B. Sousa, who reinforced the strong scientific foundation behind rubberized asphalt, particularly its long-term durability, cost efficiency, and environmental performance. Shakir Shatnawi focused on integrating advanced materials into scalable infrastructure systems, while George Way outlined the importance of institutional collaboration in accelerating market adoption.

With more than five decades of proven use—especially in the United States—rubberized asphalt is gaining renewed global attention as governments look for solutions that combine performance with sustainability. The technology offers clear advantages, including longer pavement life, improved resistance to cracking, reduced road noise, and lower lifecycle emissions. RAF’s role is increasingly centered on standardizing these benefits and ensuring consistent implementation across diverse geographies.

Georgia’s hosting of GRAS 2026 reflects its growing ambition to position itself as a regional hub for sustainable infrastructure. Through collaboration with local stakeholders, RAF is supporting pilot projects, regulatory development, and knowledge transfer aimed at embedding rubberized asphalt into national and regional road strategies.

Research and innovation remain central to RAF’s agenda. Current priorities include improving material performance, optimizing lifecycle costs, adapting solutions to different climates, and integrating rubberized asphalt into smart and resilient infrastructure systems. By connecting academia, industry, and policymakers, the foundation is helping shape the next phase of infrastructure development.

Looking ahead, RAF plans to build on the momentum from Tbilisi by expanding partnerships, launching pilot initiatives, and supporting regulatory alignment in emerging markets. The objective is clear: move from advocacy to implementation, ensuring rubberized asphalt becomes a mainstream solution within global sustainable infrastructure strategies.

Article source: OpenPR.com.