Kokosystems' sustainable, green noise barriers have a very favorable LCA and MKI value

There are some 1,250 kilometers of noise barriers along the road network in the Netherlands. When noise barriers are replaced - because the requirements for noise standards have been tightened or because they are at the end of their useful life - the durability of the barriers is increasingly being considered. With its Kokowall® noise barriers, Kokosystems offers a sustainable, circular and aesthetically pleasing solution, with a very favorable LCA and MKI score.

"When placing new screens, more and more consideration is being given to reducing the environmental impact of these screens, while maintaining the necessary acoustic and structural properties," observes Arjan Kick of Kokosystems. "Especially in projects drawn up by (semi-)governments and engineering firms, we see the requirements increasing." A good thing, he thinks. "Not only are materials and products that have less impact on the environment being considered, but also whether the noise barrier meets the requirement of at least a 50-year service life."

Minimal environmental impact and long service life

Those materials are just fine at Kokosystems. "For the noise barriers, we use the renewable raw material coconut fiber, recycled plastic for the pipes and recyclable steel for the panel frames and sound insulating board as sustainable materials. Because of the increasing demand for the environmental impact of products along the entire chain, we had the LCA and MKI values calculated by Tauw. Those scores are favorable," says Arjan. "This is because the life cycle of the products used has been optimized. As a result, our noise screen has minimal environmental impact, lasts more than 50 years, and is recyclable at the end of its life for 99%."

Beautiful green character

"The natural properties, ecological added value and beautiful aesthetic appearance therefore do well in EMVI tender processes, according to Arjan. "Not only in the construction of new screens, but also precisely where existing, mostly wooden screens are at the end of their lifespan, we offer an excellent and sustainable alternative." The green, natural look does well with local residents, he knows. "The coconut fibers are perfect for growing ivy or other plants against. Not only does that look very nice and green, but the planting also filters particulate matter, reducing CO2 levels in the air."

Complete unburdening

Kokosystems manufactures everything in-house and has a suitable, soundproofing solution for every situation. "But we provide more than just the noise barrier: we supervise every project, from advice to engineering, demolition of the current barrier and installation and planting of the new barrier," says Arjan. "This allows us to completely unburden our clients."