Bridge design 2.0; developments in the field of integrated, sustainable and durable bridge design

The landscape in bridge development and bridge design is rapidly changing. This paper deals with recent developments in the interaction between the client, the architect and the structural engineer and how each of these actors influences the others from within his role. There is a huge difference between a multidisciplinary approach to bridge design and a true integrated design approach. A second subject that is addressed is the changing role of the responsible authorities in bridge development. In recent years authorities have changed from active partners in the design process into mere facilitators of a process. The third and final topic is the increasing importance of sustainability and durability in the design. Good bridge design can help us save resources and building materials, minimizing the ecological footprint. Recent best practices in FRP are one possible solution to this challenge.