On November 14th 2024, Tipco Asphalt Public Company Limited (Tipco Asphalt) and University of Transport and Communications (UTC) signed Memorandum of Understanding for Academic Collaboration (MOU), with the aim to develop low-carbon footprint solutions for Vietnam's transport infrastructures with a focus on greenhouse gas emissions reduction, conservation of natural resources, and sustainability. The collaboration also aims to achieve higher excellence in academics, technology, and innovation.

Picture 1: Ceremony overview

The signing ceremony was honored to welcome the participation of Professors, Associate Professors, Doctors at UTC and leaders of Tipco Asphalt, Colas S.A., France (COLAS) and Asphalt Distribution Company Limited (ADCo).

Picture 2: Remarks from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Hung

In the opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Hung, Vice President in charge of UTC, affirmed the close relationship with Tipco Asphalt over the years and also affirmed that the cooperation between UTC and Tipco Asphalt is extremely important, in the context of climate change which is one of the challenges for many countries in the world. “Over the past 10 years, units of the University and the Company have connected with strategic partners of each side to organize many seminars with many joint research projects related to solutions in construction and transport associated with the goal of reducing emissions, meeting the standards of balance between the environment, social activities and business governance.”

Picture 3: Remarks from Mr. Chaiwat Srivalwat

On behalf of Tipco Asphalt, Mr. Chaiwat Srivalwat, Chief Executive Officer, shared that Tipco Asphalt’s journey towards sustainability is rooted in its Mission and Vision to deliver high-quality products while minimizing the impact on the planet. One of Tipco Asphalt’s flagship innovations is the development of modified asphalt and recycled asphalt technologies. These advanced materials use less energy in production and incorporate reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) — with the potential of diverting millions of tons of waste from landfills each year. By reusing existing materials, Tipco Asphalt helps in reducing the need for new raw materials, thus conserving natural resources and cutting down on carbon emissions.

Besides, sustainability goes beyond the production of asphalt itself, it also involves the design and performance of the roads the coporate build. By investing in high-performance materials and technologies that extend the lifespan of roads, Tipco Asphalt is reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs, thus conserving resources and minimizing waste over time.

Mr. Chaiwat extended his deepest thanks to UTC for the commitment to excellence and their partnership with ADCo, a subsidiary of Tipco Asphalt in Vietnam over the years, and also said that “Together, we are not only shaping Vietnam’s infrastructure but also contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future.”

Picture 4: Remarks from Mr. Pierre Vanstoflegatte

The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Pierre Vanstoflegatte, Chief Operating Officer at COLAS. As a strategic partner of Tipco Asphalt in Asia region. and a global leader in construction and infrastructure, Mr. Pierre shared that “At COLAS, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s at the core of everything we do. Our commitment to sustainability is rooted in a long-standing belief that we can contribute to the world in a way that protects the environment, benefits communities, and fosters economic growth for generations to come. To truly lead in sustainability, we must embrace innovation, which is where our R&D efforts play a crucial role. At COLAS, we understand that the future of infrastructure will be shaped by technological advancements and breakthroughs. That’s why we continuously invest in R&D, develope new materials, technologies, and methodologies that push the boundaries of what’s possible”

On behalf of Highway and Traffic Engineering at UTC, Dr. Dang Minh Tan, Deputy Head of the Department, commited to contributing their expertise and resources to implement of the collaborative plans outlined in this MOU. This is also an important event for the department and its partners to embark on joint research projects that focus on green technologies, delivering sustainable value to Vietnam’s transportation sector.

Picture 5: The success of the ceremony

The signing ceremony between the UTC and Tipco Asphalt is an impressive milestone in consolidating and developing the traditional cooperative relationship between the two units. The MOU shall be  the foundation for both sides to continue  a series of  joint research projects with high applicability in practice, as well as develop effective cooperation programs, contributing to improving the quality of training and scientific research to benefit students and the community.

Source: ADCo