Monaghan County Council has won the Local Authority Energy Decarbonisation Award at the 2026 LAMA All Ireland Community & Council Awards for its innovative use of cold-mix Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) in road maintenance.
The LAMA Awards recognise excellence and innovation in local government, highlighting projects that make a positive impact on communities, the environment and public services.
The Council began exploring cold-mix RAP in 2020 as a sustainable alternative to traditional hot-mix asphalt, which is energy-intensive and carbon heavy. Working with the Department of Transport, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and neighbouring local authorities, Monaghan developed a low-carbon process that blends reclaimed asphalt with bitumen emulsion and cement, eliminating the need for fossil fuel heating while producing a durable road surface. A dedicated RAP processing hub was established at Lislanley Depot to support the work.
Between 2020 and 2025, the Council delivered road rehabilitation projects on more than 26 kilometres of roads across Monaghan, Cavan, Louth and Cork. By 2024, the initiative had avoided the creation of over 644 tonnes of CO₂ emissions—a reduction of more than 64 per cent compared with traditional resurfacing—and reused more than 20,000 tonnes of reclaimed asphalt. A digital monitoring app now tracks material use and associated carbon savings.
Monaghan County Council is preparing for NSAI accreditation for cold-mix RAP, which would make it the first local authority in Ireland to secure this standard. The approach has drawn national attention, with the Council sharing its learning widely through workshops, site demonstrations and technical collaboration.
Speaking after the awards ceremony, Cathaoirleach PJ O’Hanlon added:
“I am very proud to see Monaghan County Council recognised for its innovative approach to road maintenance and climate action. This project highlights the excellent work carried out by our staff and the Council’s ongoing ambition to reduce carbon emissions through new and improved practices. My sincere congratulations to all involved, and well done on bringing this important project to national attention.”
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council said:
“This award is a significant endorsement of our commitment to delivering essential services in more sustainable and energy efficient ways. The Innovation in Road Maintenance project demonstrates how practical, evidence-based solutions can help us reduce emissions while supporting a resilient road network. I want to congratulate the Roads team for their leadership, creativity and determination in bringing this project to fruition.”
Monaghan County Council also extended its congratulations to all winners and nominees at this year’s LAMA Awards.