<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<searchText>
	<page id="1">
		<raw><![CDATA[OUR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMITMENTSREVIEW OF 2008 OUTLOOK FOR 20]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[OUR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMITMENTSREVIEW OF 2008 OUTLOOK FOR 20]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="2">
		<raw><![CDATA[SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT CONCERNS US ALLThe Grenelle Environment Forum opened up new prospects for sustainable development and collective governance. At ASF, we intend to leverage our experience and engage actively as a standard-setter, demonstrating to our clients ­ the government that granted us the concession and the people using our motorways ­ our determination to promote sustainable mobility. Our roadmap is set out in the three commitments and four resolutions we have formally adopted. We will implement them in our everyday tasks and in our most complex projects. If we are to succeed in our aims, we will need to forge partnerships with all our stakeholders: the government, local authorities, employers' and employees' federations and the non-profit sector. We are determined to achieve our aims with transparency and through dialogue. Our progress over the last 50 years and the prospects that lie ahead are all indicative of how firmly the considerations of sustainable development have taken root in the company. It is up to us now to share our approach even more proactively with all our employees and partners. ASF is putting all its solid, proven professional know-how into this commitment, offering partners shared ambitions for truly sustainable development.PIERRE ANJOLRAS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERASF, A 50-YEAR RECORD OF COMMITMENTSustainable development is part of ASF's &amp;quot;genetic code&amp;quot;. We have always paid great attention to making sure that our infrastructure blends harmoniously into its natural and cultural landscape. Over the decades, we have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience of environmentally-aware development, which has resulted in motorways now considered as models of their kind. ASF has also shown itself to be a pioneer in its everyday management. Our introduction of green space maintenance based on extensive management principles and the care devoted to planting roadside vegetation strips and recolonising them with local species are just two innovations that have since been widely adopted in the industry. In terms of traffic management, techniques developed since the early 2000s such as journey time displays and speed regulation during periods of heavy traffic are now an established part of the toolkit used by motorway operators to limit traffic jams and all the problems they can cause. Another of our core concerns is working from the concept design stage onwards to minimise the environmental impacts of a motorway throughout its lifecycle. As sustainable growth becomes a key issue for our society, we apply the lessons learned from our long history to mapping out the future. Our sustainable development approach is founded on three commitments and four resolutions, clearly and transparently displayed, which guide all our actions now and in the years ahead.Lush vegetation and stone quarries at the Crazannes rest area on the A837 in western France.Selective waste sorting at service area]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT CONCERNS US ALLThe Grenelle Environment Forum opened up new prospects for sustainable development and collective governance. At ASF, we intend to leverage our experience and engage actively as a standard-setter, demonstrating to our clients ­ the government that granted us the concession and the people using our motorways ­ our determination to promote sustainable mobility. Our roadmap is set out in the three commitments and four resolutions we have formally adopted. We will implement them in our everyday tasks and in our most complex projects. If we are to succeed in our aims, we will need to forge partnerships with all our stakeholders: the government, local authorities, employers' and employees' federations and the non-profit sector. We are determined to achieve our aims with transparency and through dialogue. Our progress over the last 50 years and the prospects that lie ahead are all indicative of how firmly the considerations of sustainable development have taken root in the company. It is up to us now to share our approach even more proactively with all our employees and partners. ASF is putting all its solid, proven professional know-how into this commitment, offering partners shared ambitions for truly sustainable development.PIERRE ANJOLRAS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERASF, A 50-YEAR RECORD OF COMMITMENTSustainable development is part of ASF's &amp;quot;genetic code&amp;quot;. We have always paid great attention to making sure that our infrastructure blends harmoniously into its natural and cultural landscape. Over the decades, we have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience of environmentally-aware development, which has resulted in motorways now considered as models of their kind. ASF has also shown itself to be a pioneer in its everyday management. Our introduction of green space maintenance based on extensive management principles and the care devoted to planting roadside vegetation strips and recolonising them with local species are just two innovations that have since been widely adopted in the industry. In terms of traffic management, techniques developed since the early 2000s such as journey time displays and speed regulation during periods of heavy traffic are now an established part of the toolkit used by motorway operators to limit traffic jams and all the problems they can cause. Another of our core concerns is working from the concept design stage onwards to minimise the environmental impacts of a motorway throughout its lifecycle. As sustainable growth becomes a key issue for our society, we apply the lessons learned from our long history to mapping out the future. Our sustainable development approach is founded on three commitments and four resolutions, clearly and transparently displayed, which guide all our actions now and in the years ahead.Lush vegetation and stone quarries at the Crazannes rest area on the A837 in western France.Selective waste sorting at service area]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="3">
		<raw><![CDATA[ASF squares up to the central challenges of sustainable development 4 RESOLUTIONS... ... 3 COMMITMENTSReduce greenhouse gas emissions on our motorways Make our motorways increasingly environment-friendly Promote individual career development for each of our employees· Improve · Educate our customers towards more environmentally responsible behaviour the debate on · Contribute creative ideas tolocal government investment decisions by national andAssess··]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[ASF squares up to the central challenges of sustainable development 4 RESOLUTIONS... ... 3 COMMITMENTSReduce greenhouse gas emissions on our motorways Make our motorways increasingly environment-friendly Promote individual career development for each of our employees· Improve · Educate our customers towards more environmentally responsible behaviour the debate on · Contribute creative ideas tolocal government investment decisions by national andAssess··]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="4">
		<raw><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOREDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONSAs a good corporate citizen committed to protecting the environment, ASF is actively engaged in the fight against climate change. We subscribe to the commitment by Europe in general and France in particular to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020. As part of our contribution, we are introducing measures to improve traffic flow and safety, but also to encourage our customers to adopt smoother and more fuel-efficient driving habits and more civic-minded attitudes. We also intend to introduce and promote thrifty and environmentally-responsible consumption of all resources used by our company.Innovative solutions for smoother traffic flowASF uses its expertise in traffic management to reduce fuel consumption and limit emissions of CO2, the main greenhouse gas responsible for climate change. Smoother traffic flows reduce excess fuel consumption caused by stop-go driving, and so play a part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In summer 2004, we introduced an experimental variable speed regulation system on a section of the A7 motorway between Orange and Valence-Sud. Adjusting speed limits to traffic density has improved driving conditions on this very busy main route through the Rhône Valley. On a broader front, our experiment has also produced encouraging results in terms of reduced accident rates (-25%), better traffic flow and greater driving comfort by reducing congestion (-30%). The system has proved such a success that it has been repeated every year since 2004 and in 2008 was extended to an 85 km stretch of the A9 motorway between Montpellier and Narbonne. In addition, the overtaking ban imposed on HGVs on an experimental basis in summer 2007 to optimise traffic flow in certain sensitive sectors was extended in summer 2008 to two more sections of the A7. Both of these government-approved measures have proved their worth and could in the longer term be extended throughout the Rhône Valley and the southern French seabord. The measures,02which are put into action as soon as traffic volumes reach the trigger level, are also an integral part of our policy of awareness-raising and information to promote more responsible driving.OutlookTo improve the flow of traffic at toll stations, ASF is planning to introduce the first 30 kph drive-through electronic toll lanes by the end of 2009. By removing the need for car and HGV drivers to stop at toll booths, the new technology helps to reduce both CO2 emissions and fuel consumption at a stroke. These free-flow toll lanes will save over 100 million litres of fuel across our network, the equivalent of the CO2 emissions of a town of 15,000 inhabitants.Campaigns to change driving habitsAs a way of encouraging its customers to adopt safer and stress-free driving habits by taking regular breaks, every year at peak holiday times ASF organises events at its service and rest areas. In 2008, we expanded our summer programme of events to include more emphasis on safety and environmentally responsible behaviour. ASF organised a variety of workshops to raise customers' road safety awareness: introduction to first aid, reflex testing, tyre pressure checking, etc. &amp;quot;Roll-over&amp;quot; simulators enabled drivers and passengers to appreciate the importance of fastening front and rear seat belts. The overall aim is to encourage drivers to change their driving habits, ease off the accelerator and adapt their driving to the conditions.Every summer, more than 20 institutional and civil partners help ASF teams to raise customer awareness of road safety. Pictured here, the &amp;quot;roll-over&amp;quot; simulator provided by insurer MACIF Préventio]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOREDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONSAs a good corporate citizen committed to protecting the environment, ASF is actively engaged in the fight against climate change. We subscribe to the commitment by Europe in general and France in particular to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020. As part of our contribution, we are introducing measures to improve traffic flow and safety, but also to encourage our customers to adopt smoother and more fuel-efficient driving habits and more civic-minded attitudes. We also intend to introduce and promote thrifty and environmentally-responsible consumption of all resources used by our company.Innovative solutions for smoother traffic flowASF uses its expertise in traffic management to reduce fuel consumption and limit emissions of CO2, the main greenhouse gas responsible for climate change. Smoother traffic flows reduce excess fuel consumption caused by stop-go driving, and so play a part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In summer 2004, we introduced an experimental variable speed regulation system on a section of the A7 motorway between Orange and Valence-Sud. Adjusting speed limits to traffic density has improved driving conditions on this very busy main route through the Rhone Valley. On a broader front, our experiment has also produced encouraging results in terms of reduced accident rates (-25%), better traffic flow and greater driving comfort by reducing congestion (-30%). The system has proved such a success that it has been repeated every year since 2004 and in 2008 was extended to an 85 km stretch of the A9 motorway between Montpellier and Narbonne. In addition, the overtaking ban imposed on HGVs on an experimental basis in summer 2007 to optimise traffic flow in certain sensitive sectors was extended in summer 2008 to two more sections of the A7. Both of these government-approved measures have proved their worth and could in the longer term be extended throughout the Rhone Valley and the southern French seabord. The measures,02which are put into action as soon as traffic volumes reach the trigger level, are also an integral part of our policy of awareness-raising and information to promote more responsible driving.OutlookTo improve the flow of traffic at toll stations, ASF is planning to introduce the first 30 kph drive-through electronic toll lanes by the end of 2009. By removing the need for car and HGV drivers to stop at toll booths, the new technology helps to reduce both CO2 emissions and fuel consumption at a stroke. These free-flow toll lanes will save over 100 million litres of fuel across our network, the equivalent of the CO2 emissions of a town of 15,000 inhabitants.Campaigns to change driving habitsAs a way of encouraging its customers to adopt safer and stress-free driving habits by taking regular breaks, every year at peak holiday times ASF organises events at its service and rest areas. In 2008, we expanded our summer programme of events to include more emphasis on safety and environmentally responsible behaviour. ASF organised a variety of workshops to raise customers' road safety awareness: introduction to first aid, reflex testing, tyre pressure checking, etc. &amp;quot;Roll-over&amp;quot; simulators enabled drivers and passengers to appreciate the importance of fastening front and rear seat belts. The overall aim is to encourage drivers to change their driving habits, ease off the accelerator and adapt their driving to the conditions.Every summer, more than 20 institutional and civil partners help ASF teams to raise customer awareness of road safety. Pictured here, the &amp;quot;roll-over&amp;quot; simulator provided by insurer MACIF Preventio]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="5">
		<raw><![CDATA[5.7%ENERGY* SAVINGS IN 2008As a Biodiversity Partner of the Fondation Nicolas Hulot pour la Nature et l'Homme (FNH) since 2004, ASF also used its summer events to support the Foundation's &amp;quot;biodiversity on the plate&amp;quot; awareness campaign that encourages people to eat local, seasonal fruit and vegetables. As part of the campaign, local producers were invited to set up stands at 20 rest areas. Another joint initiative involved handing out 100,000 FNH leaflets on summer sports entitled &amp;quot;Limit your sport's impact on nature&amp;quot;, as well as 100,000 &amp;quot;Little Green Book for the Earth&amp;quot; eco-guides. In 2008, ASF brought an extra 550 extra HGV parking spaces into service to improve service area facilities for truck drivers on the busiest routes. By 2011, over 2,000 HGV parking spaces will be created at existing service areas, together with seven new secured parking facilities for HGVs. The aim is to make it easier for long-distance drivers to find rest areas offering security and every convenience, without driving long hours.OutlookAnother aspect of ASF's commitment to encouraging customers to adopt eco-friendly habits is the introduction of selective waste sorting bins for visitor use at all its service areas and main rest areas. Lastly, biodiversity will once again be a key theme of the 2009 summer programme of events.OutlookAs a means of reducing its energy use, ASF will be installing 136 lighting regulators in 2009 to generate savings of some 30% on the energy consumption of the sites concerned. To optimise work-related journeys by our employees, we will be launching a pilot eco-driving training scheme for operations teams in the Provence-Camargue Regional Division, with 150 employees taking the course in 2009. The scheme will also help us to assess the fuel economies achieved. Lastly, to ensure that our commitment to sustainable development is shared by our suppliers and partners, we have incorporated a number of environmental criteria into our requests for proposals on contract renewals for commercial facilities. Around 50% of the operating contracts for commercial facilities at our network's 102 service areas will be coming up for renewal by 2012. This is an ideal opportunity for us to engage with our partners on environmental issues such as selective waste sorting, use of low-energy buildings or collecting rainwater for washing floors or flushing toilets.Economical and responsible consumptionASF intends to make its raw materials purchasing and consumption policy a key pillar of its commitment to good corporate citizenship. In 2008, combining economic and environmental factors, we launched a programme to fit voltage regulators on the public lighting in our rest areas, service areas and toll stations. We have also initiated a programme of energy audits of eight operations buildings preparatory to making the investments needed to reduce energy bills over the years ahead.* Electricity, gas, fuel, based on consumption in kWh.In 2008, ASF extended the speed regulation system to the A9 motorway between Montpellier and Narbonne, a route that can carry up to 170,000 vehicles a day at summer holiday traffic peaks. Customers have been quick to understand and accept the measure. With everyone playing their part, journey times are shorter, traffic incident and accident rates are down and so, too, are greenhouse gas emissions.Didier Hamon, Regional Operations Manager, Languedoc-Roussillon]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[5.7%ENERGY* SAVINGS IN 2008As a Biodiversity Partner of the Fondation Nicolas Hulot pour la Nature et l'Homme (FNH) since 2004, ASF also used its summer events to support the Foundation's &amp;quot;biodiversity on the plate&amp;quot; awareness campaign that encourages people to eat local, seasonal fruit and vegetables. As part of the campaign, local producers were invited to set up stands at 20 rest areas. Another joint initiative involved handing out 100,000 FNH leaflets on summer sports entitled &amp;quot;Limit your sport's impact on nature&amp;quot;, as well as 100,000 &amp;quot;Little Green Book for the Earth&amp;quot; eco-guides. In 2008, ASF brought an extra 550 extra HGV parking spaces into service to improve service area facilities for truck drivers on the busiest routes. By 2011, over 2,000 HGV parking spaces will be created at existing service areas, together with seven new secured parking facilities for HGVs. The aim is to make it easier for long-distance drivers to find rest areas offering security and every convenience, without driving long hours.OutlookAnother aspect of ASF's commitment to encouraging customers to adopt eco-friendly habits is the introduction of selective waste sorting bins for visitor use at all its service areas and main rest areas. Lastly, biodiversity will once again be a key theme of the 2009 summer programme of events.OutlookAs a means of reducing its energy use, ASF will be installing 136 lighting regulators in 2009 to generate savings of some 30% on the energy consumption of the sites concerned. To optimise work-related journeys by our employees, we will be launching a pilot eco-driving training scheme for operations teams in the Provence-Camargue Regional Division, with 150 employees taking the course in 2009. The scheme will also help us to assess the fuel economies achieved. Lastly, to ensure that our commitment to sustainable development is shared by our suppliers and partners, we have incorporated a number of environmental criteria into our requests for proposals on contract renewals for commercial facilities. Around 50% of the operating contracts for commercial facilities at our network's 102 service areas will be coming up for renewal by 2012. This is an ideal opportunity for us to engage with our partners on environmental issues such as selective waste sorting, use of low-energy buildings or collecting rainwater for washing floors or flushing toilets.Economical and responsible consumptionASF intends to make its raw materials purchasing and consumption policy a key pillar of its commitment to good corporate citizenship. In 2008, combining economic and environmental factors, we launched a programme to fit voltage regulators on the public lighting in our rest areas, service areas and toll stations. We have also initiated a programme of energy audits of eight operations buildings preparatory to making the investments needed to reduce energy bills over the years ahead.* Electricity, gas, fuel, based on consumption in kWh.In 2008, ASF extended the speed regulation system to the A9 motorway between Montpellier and Narbonne, a route that can carry up to 170,000 vehicles a day at summer holiday traffic peaks. Customers have been quick to understand and accept the measure. With everyone playing their part, journey times are shorter, traffic incident and accident rates are down and so, too, are greenhouse gas emissions.Didier Hamon, Regional Operations Manager, Languedoc-Roussillon]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="6">
		<raw><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOMAKING OUR MOTORWAYS INCREASINGLY ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLYFor ASF, a motorway that respects the environment of the people who live nearby and the natural habitats it passes through is a motorway whose impact is carefully controlled. We believe that adopting eco-design and eco-management approaches makes it possible to build and operate motorways that systematically protect neighbouring communities from noise pollution, promote biodiversity and protect natural areas and water resources. We are constantly innovating and setting new standards as we bring our environmental know-how to bear on addressing these key issues in all our infrastructure development and maintenance programmes.Protecting local residents from noiseIn compliance with current legislation on noise prevention, ASF deploys measures to protect the quality of life of local residents. The aim is to bring noise levels affecting those living near the motorway below the maximum regulatory thresholds. To protect communities in place prior to a new motorway or upgrade of an existing route, we install noise barriers and earth embankments, which are then seeded with vegetation. Facades of isolated homes near the motorway route are fitted with sound insulation. During the construction of new sections such as the La Roche sur Yon southern bypass on the A87 (Angers­La Roche sur Yon) motorway or the Thenon­Terrasson section of the A89 (Bordeaux­Clermont Ferrand) in 2008, some 110 homes were fitted with noise insulation. In keeping with the Grenelle Environment Forum recommendations on noise pollution (under the &amp;quot;environment and health&amp;quot; heading), ASF embarked on a noise-mapping project in 2008 to identify noise black spots across the entire network. Over 1,300 black spots were identified, and an improvement programme was initiated in 2008. Over and above our regulatory obligations, we are always open to working with local authorities wishing to install additional noise protection measures: in 2008, 37 homes benefitted from such measures on sections of the A20, A64 and A8 motorways.04OutlookIn 2009, ASF will continue with the noise black spot improvement programme, which is scheduled for completion in 2011. Motorway upgrades also provide opportunities for reclassifying older sections that have seen considerable increases in traffic and urban development since they were first commissioned. During resurfacing operations, special coatings designed to reduce traffic noise may be applied on particularly sensitive sections.Encouraging biodiversity in natural habitatsASF's commitment to biodiversity starts at the motorway design stage, when we make comprehensive studies of existing biotopes and species. Then we implement an action plan to preserve or relocate these habitats. As part of the work on the A87 bypass of La Roche sur Yon, we acquired two wetland sites of special interest for biodiversity. To ensure that our green assets continue to act as a significant carbon sink, we planted an additional 190,000 trees and shrubs along our roadsides in 2009. To date, we have planted 16 million trees and shrubs, creating a green area equivalent to the total area taken up by our motorways. We do our best to avoid fragmenting natural land units and so reducing the habitat available to animal species. Wherever possible, we build Wild flowers sown on motorway verges to encourage biodiversit]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOMAKING OUR MOTORWAYS INCREASINGLY ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLYFor ASF, a motorway that respects the environment of the people who live nearby and the natural habitats it passes through is a motorway whose impact is carefully controlled. We believe that adopting eco-design and eco-management approaches makes it possible to build and operate motorways that systematically protect neighbouring communities from noise pollution, promote biodiversity and protect natural areas and water resources. We are constantly innovating and setting new standards as we bring our environmental know-how to bear on addressing these key issues in all our infrastructure development and maintenance programmes.Protecting local residents from noiseIn compliance with current legislation on noise prevention, ASF deploys measures to protect the quality of life of local residents. The aim is to bring noise levels affecting those living near the motorway below the maximum regulatory thresholds. To protect communities in place prior to a new motorway or upgrade of an existing route, we install noise barriers and earth embankments, which are then seeded with vegetation. Facades of isolated homes near the motorway route are fitted with sound insulation. During the construction of new sections such as the La Roche sur Yon southern bypass on the A87 (Angers­La Roche sur Yon) motorway or the Thenon­Terrasson section of the A89 (Bordeaux­Clermont Ferrand) in 2008, some 110 homes were fitted with noise insulation. In keeping with the Grenelle Environment Forum recommendations on noise pollution (under the &amp;quot;environment and health&amp;quot; heading), ASF embarked on a noise-mapping project in 2008 to identify noise black spots across the entire network. Over 1,300 black spots were identified, and an improvement programme was initiated in 2008. Over and above our regulatory obligations, we are always open to working with local authorities wishing to install additional noise protection measures: in 2008, 37 homes benefitted from such measures on sections of the A20, A64 and A8 motorways.04OutlookIn 2009, ASF will continue with the noise black spot improvement programme, which is scheduled for completion in 2011. Motorway upgrades also provide opportunities for reclassifying older sections that have seen considerable increases in traffic and urban development since they were first commissioned. During resurfacing operations, special coatings designed to reduce traffic noise may be applied on particularly sensitive sections.Encouraging biodiversity in natural habitatsASF's commitment to biodiversity starts at the motorway design stage, when we make comprehensive studies of existing biotopes and species. Then we implement an action plan to preserve or relocate these habitats. As part of the work on the A87 bypass of La Roche sur Yon, we acquired two wetland sites of special interest for biodiversity. To ensure that our green assets continue to act as a significant carbon sink, we planted an additional 190,000 trees and shrubs along our roadsides in 2009. To date, we have planted 16 million trees and shrubs, creating a green area equivalent to the total area taken up by our motorways. We do our best to avoid fragmenting natural land units and so reducing the habitat available to animal species. Wherever possible, we build Wild flowers sown on motorway verges to encourage biodiversit]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="7">
		<raw><![CDATA[5.412 kmOF FENCING MAINTAINEDcrossings over and under our motorways to facilitate the movement of wild animals (deer, boar, otters, etc.). In 2008, we created seven crossings for large animals and 40 for smaller animals, taking the total of such structures on our network to 340. The crossings are monitored regularly, often in conjunction with local wildlife organisations. ASF also practices responsible management of motorway green spaces, which provide ecological corridors for a vast number of wildlife species. We concentrate on effective, organically-based solutions and keep our use of chemical products to the strict minimum. In 2008, our consumption of plant protection chemicals was down to around 1 litre per hectare of green space. At ASF, we are also keen for our motorways to form an integral part of their environment. Accordingly, we decided to showcase the ecological diversity of surrounding habitats at certain rest and service areas, creating special biodiversity events to introduce visitors to the great wealth of plant and animal species to be found across our network.for filtering before it reaches groundwater and rivers. Rainwater run-off from the carriageway may be contaminated by certain pollutants (rubber from tyre abrasion, engine oil, de-icing salts, etc.). Another potential risk to water resources is pollution from accidental spillage of hazardous materials in transit. In 2008, we built an additional 28 pollution detention basins and two watercourse protection structures.From 2004 to 2007, ASF supported our project to protect Hermann's tortoise, the only species of land tortoise native to France, and a few months ago this resulted in a national reintroduction campaign. Since 2008, ASF has opted to publicise our awareness campaigns to its customers. Together we have addressed the issues of sustainable food, energy savings, protecting biodiversity, etc. ASF is a manifestly committed campaigner for biodiversity.Antoine Cadi, Fondation Nicolas Hulot pour la Nature et l'HommeOutlookIn 2009, ASF will be planting wild flower meadows at half a dozen of the network rest areas. The meadows, which provide an excellent habitat for insect life, will be trialled in temperate regions where they are easy to seed and maintain. The initiative, and others like it, has the support of the Fondation Nicolas Hulot. Lastly, ASF is looking at ways to improve the links between natural green belt and blue belt zones in pilot areas. The aim is to make it easier for species to move around thanks to ecological corridors or further provision of safe motorway crossings.Construction projects that set the standard on environmental issuesAs an environmentally responsible contractor, ASF implements an environmental management system on its construction sites to limit the environmental impact of the motorway on the natural setting. Work on the 53.5 km section of the A89 motorway between Balbigny and La Tour de Salvagny in eastern France, launched in June 2008, shows just how committed we are to setting the standard in terms of environmental protection. Our environmental project management was awarded ISO 14001 certification in January 2009 (see details on the back cover). Another example of eco-design in action is the use of warm-mix asphalt to surface the La Roche sur Yon bypass (A87), which was opened to traffic in summer 2008. This new technique lowers the temperature at which the asphalt is mixed and laid on the road surface, thereby reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by 50% or 60% and significantly improving conditions for road workers (lower operating temperature and reduced emissions of volatile organic compounds).OutlookTo continue to expand our capacity for innovation in infrastructure development projects, we have established environmental management guidelines. This body of know-how will be constantly expanded and capitalised upon during future projects. To assess the socio-economic impact of our motorways on the areas they pass through, we carry out assessments and publish LOTI (Domestic Transport Act) compliance and environmental reports. After the A83 and A66, this assessment tool will next be applied to the A20 (Brive­Montauban) motorway in 2009. Several years after construction, these reports enable us to measure the extent to which we have met our environmental commitments, and to ensure that the infrastructure in question has kept pace with changes and developments in the areas served.05Protecting and husbanding water resourcesTo protect the quality of water resources, we are moving ahead with the programme of upgrading our older motorways in the most vulnerable areas. The aim here is to direct rainwater run-off to catchment basi]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[5.412 kmOF FENCING MAINTAINEDcrossings over and under our motorways to facilitate the movement of wild animals (deer, boar, otters, etc.). In 2008, we created seven crossings for large animals and 40 for smaller animals, taking the total of such structures on our network to 340. The crossings are monitored regularly, often in conjunction with local wildlife organisations. ASF also practices responsible management of motorway green spaces, which provide ecological corridors for a vast number of wildlife species. We concentrate on effective, organically-based solutions and keep our use of chemical products to the strict minimum. In 2008, our consumption of plant protection chemicals was down to around 1 litre per hectare of green space. At ASF, we are also keen for our motorways to form an integral part of their environment. Accordingly, we decided to showcase the ecological diversity of surrounding habitats at certain rest and service areas, creating special biodiversity events to introduce visitors to the great wealth of plant and animal species to be found across our network.for filtering before it reaches groundwater and rivers. Rainwater run-off from the carriageway may be contaminated by certain pollutants (rubber from tyre abrasion, engine oil, de-icing salts, etc.). Another potential risk to water resources is pollution from accidental spillage of hazardous materials in transit. In 2008, we built an additional 28 pollution detention basins and two watercourse protection structures.From 2004 to 2007, ASF supported our project to protect Hermann's tortoise, the only species of land tortoise native to France, and a few months ago this resulted in a national reintroduction campaign. Since 2008, ASF has opted to publicise our awareness campaigns to its customers. Together we have addressed the issues of sustainable food, energy savings, protecting biodiversity, etc. ASF is a manifestly committed campaigner for biodiversity.Antoine Cadi, Fondation Nicolas Hulot pour la Nature et l'HommeOutlookIn 2009, ASF will be planting wild flower meadows at half a dozen of the network rest areas. The meadows, which provide an excellent habitat for insect life, will be trialled in temperate regions where they are easy to seed and maintain. The initiative, and others like it, has the support of the Fondation Nicolas Hulot. Lastly, ASF is looking at ways to improve the links between natural green belt and blue belt zones in pilot areas. The aim is to make it easier for species to move around thanks to ecological corridors or further provision of safe motorway crossings.Construction projects that set the standard on environmental issuesAs an environmentally responsible contractor, ASF implements an environmental management system on its construction sites to limit the environmental impact of the motorway on the natural setting. Work on the 53.5 km section of the A89 motorway between Balbigny and La Tour de Salvagny in eastern France, launched in June 2008, shows just how committed we are to setting the standard in terms of environmental protection. Our environmental project management was awarded ISO 14001 certification in January 2009 (see details on the back cover). Another example of eco-design in action is the use of warm-mix asphalt to surface the La Roche sur Yon bypass (A87), which was opened to traffic in summer 2008. This new technique lowers the temperature at which the asphalt is mixed and laid on the road surface, thereby reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by 50% or 60% and significantly improving conditions for road workers (lower operating temperature and reduced emissions of volatile organic compounds).OutlookTo continue to expand our capacity for innovation in infrastructure development projects, we have established environmental management guidelines. This body of know-how will be constantly expanded and capitalised upon during future projects. To assess the socio-economic impact of our motorways on the areas they pass through, we carry out assessments and publish LOTI (Domestic Transport Act) compliance and environmental reports. After the A83 and A66, this assessment tool will next be applied to the A20 (Brive­Montauban) motorway in 2009. Several years after construction, these reports enable us to measure the extent to which we have met our environmental commitments, and to ensure that the infrastructure in question has kept pace with changes and developments in the areas served.05Protecting and husbanding water resourcesTo protect the quality of water resources, we are moving ahead with the programme of upgrading our older motorways in the most vulnerable areas. The aim here is to direct rainwater run-off to catchment basi]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="8">
		<raw><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOPROMOTING INDIVIDUAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT FOR EACH COMPANY EMPLOYEEAt ASF, we firmly believe that our company's success is built primarily on its people. To meet the challenges of the future and develop our employees' skills as the company grows, we have established a training policy designed to meet their needs. On the safety front, we are continuing to pursue our goal of zero accidents. Our human resources policy stresses diversity and equal opportunities. Our aim is to create sustainable jobs and maintain a high quality of social dialogue.Safety: a constant challengeThe physical security of employees is a concern that is central to the culture of any motorway operator. Employee safety is a constant priority for ASF, and our objective is nothing short of zero accidents. The number of work-related accidents involving lost time fell yet again in 2008: the figure was 79 for the year, 10 accidents fewer than in 2007. Thirteen of 37 entities, five more than last year, achieved the zero accidents goal. In addition to measures taken as regards equipment (deployment of automatic signs on central reservations) or raising awareness (an accident prevention portal on the company intranet), we are also continuing our accident prevention and safety training campaign. Example: our &amp;quot;route safety&amp;quot; certification for motorway workers and patrol officers is very much like an in-house driving licence. The course, a combination of theory and practice, trains and tests employees in their grasp of safety recommendations and practices when using the motorway on professional journeys. In 2008, a further 777 employees successfully took the course and to date 90% of all employees concerned have received training.evolve to keep pace. The main technology-driven changes are taking place in the toll and telecoms sectors. After overhauling toll operations in 2007, we carried out a root and branch review of the organisation of our telecoms operations, used for traffic regulation and management, to ensure even faster response times to incidents. The review was accompanied by the introduction of formal career development paths and certification procedures for the operators concerned. The world is changing, and ASF with it. To prepare for change, our aim is to prepare our employees for the jobs of the future and to meet the requirements of our customers and the government concession grantor. The forward-looking jobs and skills management (GPEC) agreement signed in 2007 opens up new prospects for employees to change jobs, irrespective of their sector of origin. To date, over 130 employees have taken advantage of these bridges to change, helped by a six-month transition and adaptation period. Lastly, in 2008, as part of the process of raising awareness of sustainable development, the Ouest-Atlantique and Provence-Camargue regional division teams received training in environmental issues, focusing in particular on the management of selective waste sorting.OutlookSupporting personal career development for every employeeAs new technologies are developed, jobs and professional skills must06As part of employee development measures, the &amp;quot;ASF Career Path&amp;quot; project initiated in September 2008 will be implemented in 2009. The project involves creating what is effectively an in-house training school for the motorway construction and operation industry, offeringPoster distributed internally to involve company employees in the biodiversity awareness campaign launched by ASF in 200]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[ASF IS COMMITTED TOPROMOTING INDIVIDUAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT FOR EACH COMPANY EMPLOYEEAt ASF, we firmly believe that our company's success is built primarily on its people. To meet the challenges of the future and develop our employees' skills as the company grows, we have established a training policy designed to meet their needs. On the safety front, we are continuing to pursue our goal of zero accidents. Our human resources policy stresses diversity and equal opportunities. Our aim is to create sustainable jobs and maintain a high quality of social dialogue.Safety: a constant challengeThe physical security of employees is a concern that is central to the culture of any motorway operator. Employee safety is a constant priority for ASF, and our objective is nothing short of zero accidents. The number of work-related accidents involving lost time fell yet again in 2008: the figure was 79 for the year, 10 accidents fewer than in 2007. Thirteen of 37 entities, five more than last year, achieved the zero accidents goal. In addition to measures taken as regards equipment (deployment of automatic signs on central reservations) or raising awareness (an accident prevention portal on the company intranet), we are also continuing our accident prevention and safety training campaign. Example: our &amp;quot;route safety&amp;quot; certification for motorway workers and patrol officers is very much like an in-house driving licence. The course, a combination of theory and practice, trains and tests employees in their grasp of safety recommendations and practices when using the motorway on professional journeys. In 2008, a further 777 employees successfully took the course and to date 90% of all employees concerned have received training.evolve to keep pace. The main technology-driven changes are taking place in the toll and telecoms sectors. After overhauling toll operations in 2007, we carried out a root and branch review of the organisation of our telecoms operations, used for traffic regulation and management, to ensure even faster response times to incidents. The review was accompanied by the introduction of formal career development paths and certification procedures for the operators concerned. The world is changing, and ASF with it. To prepare for change, our aim is to prepare our employees for the jobs of the future and to meet the requirements of our customers and the government concession grantor. The forward-looking jobs and skills management (GPEC) agreement signed in 2007 opens up new prospects for employees to change jobs, irrespective of their sector of origin. To date, over 130 employees have taken advantage of these bridges to change, helped by a six-month transition and adaptation period. Lastly, in 2008, as part of the process of raising awareness of sustainable development, the Ouest-Atlantique and Provence-Camargue regional division teams received training in environmental issues, focusing in particular on the management of selective waste sorting.OutlookSupporting personal career development for every employeeAs new technologies are developed, jobs and professional skills must06As part of employee development measures, the &amp;quot;ASF Career Path&amp;quot; project initiated in September 2008 will be implemented in 2009. The project involves creating what is effectively an in-house training school for the motorway construction and operation industry, offeringPoster distributed internally to involve company employees in the biodiversity awareness campaign launched by ASF in 200]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="9">
		<raw><![CDATA[6.57%PERCENTAGE OF DISABLED EMPLOYEESa comprehensive training curriculum. In 2009, we will launch modules devoted to sustainable development as part of our training programme to be given under the terms of the individual right to training (DIF) scheme.Social dialogue at the heart of our agreementsIn 2008, ASF pursued an active policy of company-wide agreements negotiated with trade union organisations: a total of 11 agreements were signed. ASF implemented an agreement on remuneration policy designed to reward employees for their personal commitment, with greater emphasis on individual performance-related salary increases. In view of the increasing automation of toll operations and the complex rules of calculation involved, ASF and the trade unions decided jointly to simplify the rules for calculating bonuses for toll operations staff to make them easier to understand and more attractive.ahead in the field of professional inclusion. The company currently employs 259 people with disabilities on fixed-term and unlimited-term contracts. In addition, we have subcontracting agreements in place with 63 supported/sheltered employment structures (EA and ESAT). As a result, ASF won recognition for having contracted with more ESAT sheltered structures than any other firm in Languedoc-Roussillon and, in November 2008, received an award from Cap LR, the non-profit organisation of directors of supported/sheltered structures in the region. Elsewhere, the spread of &amp;quot;professionalisation&amp;quot; contracts has provided us with the means to expand the integration of young people into the company. In parallel, 85 employees aged 55 or over signed up to the CATS early retirement scheme for certain categories of employees; the scheme takes into account the arduous nature of some jobs. Lastly, to encourage best practices and combat discrimination of every form in recruitment, ASF provided equal opportunities training for members of the Central Works Council and human resources managers. In 2008, some of our employees' projects focusing on civic engagement and solidarity were selected by the VINCI Foundation for the Community. An annual budget is set aside to fund non-profit organisations working to help the disadvantaged back into mainstream social and professional life. The projects are supported by VINCI Group employees through the transfer of best practices and skills.In 2008, we achieved our target of zero lost-time accidents thanks to the care and attention of all our employees, not only for themselves, but also for their colleagues. It is also the result of accident prevention measures taken at local level, with actions such as the in-depth analysis of each accident to identify solutions.Stéphane Richardot, Head of Villefranche districtTwo organisations sponsored by ASF employees received support in 2008: both provide access to employment, one via an organic vegetable box scheme, the other via low-cost vehicle rentals. In October 2008, motorway workers in the Vendée district took a group of young people from the suburbs of Nantes under their wing for two weeks, giving them an insight into what their work entails.Diversity and solidarity strengthen the companyEquality and diversity are core to ASF's commitment to setting the standard. In 2007, we signed an agreement on the employment of people with disabilities that underscores our determination to forgeOutlookIn 2009, ASF and the VINCI Group are committed to obtaining the Diversity Label, a system of regular and independent diversity management audits, awarded by AFNOR Certification.]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[6.57%PERCENTAGE OF DISABLED EMPLOYEESa comprehensive training curriculum. In 2009, we will launch modules devoted to sustainable development as part of our training programme to be given under the terms of the individual right to training (DIF) scheme.Social dialogue at the heart of our agreementsIn 2008, ASF pursued an active policy of company-wide agreements negotiated with trade union organisations: a total of 11 agreements were signed. ASF implemented an agreement on remuneration policy designed to reward employees for their personal commitment, with greater emphasis on individual performance-related salary increases. In view of the increasing automation of toll operations and the complex rules of calculation involved, ASF and the trade unions decided jointly to simplify the rules for calculating bonuses for toll operations staff to make them easier to understand and more attractive.ahead in the field of professional inclusion. The company currently employs 259 people with disabilities on fixed-term and unlimited-term contracts. In addition, we have subcontracting agreements in place with 63 supported/sheltered employment structures (EA and ESAT). As a result, ASF won recognition for having contracted with more ESAT sheltered structures than any other firm in Languedoc-Roussillon and, in November 2008, received an award from Cap LR, the non-profit organisation of directors of supported/sheltered structures in the region. Elsewhere, the spread of &amp;quot;professionalisation&amp;quot; contracts has provided us with the means to expand the integration of young people into the company. In parallel, 85 employees aged 55 or over signed up to the CATS early retirement scheme for certain categories of employees; the scheme takes into account the arduous nature of some jobs. Lastly, to encourage best practices and combat discrimination of every form in recruitment, ASF provided equal opportunities training for members of the Central Works Council and human resources managers. In 2008, some of our employees' projects focusing on civic engagement and solidarity were selected by the VINCI Foundation for the Community. An annual budget is set aside to fund non-profit organisations working to help the disadvantaged back into mainstream social and professional life. The projects are supported by VINCI Group employees through the transfer of best practices and skills.In 2008, we achieved our target of zero lost-time accidents thanks to the care and attention of all our employees, not only for themselves, but also for their colleagues. It is also the result of accident prevention measures taken at local level, with actions such as the in-depth analysis of each accident to identify solutions.Stephane Richardot, Head of Villefranche districtTwo organisations sponsored by ASF employees received support in 2008: both provide access to employment, one via an organic vegetable box scheme, the other via low-cost vehicle rentals. In October 2008, motorway workers in the Vendee district took a group of young people from the suburbs of Nantes under their wing for two weeks, giving them an insight into what their work entails.Diversity and solidarity strengthen the companyEquality and diversity are core to ASF's commitment to setting the standard. In 2007, we signed an agreement on the employment of people with disabilities that underscores our determination to forgeOutlookIn 2009, ASF and the VINCI Group are committed to obtaining the Diversity Label, a system of regular and independent diversity management audits, awarded by AFNOR Certification.]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="10">
		<raw><![CDATA[TOMORROW'S MOTORWAY WILL BE GREENEREcological corridor linking natural areas off the motorway Large animal crossing Small animal crossing Car-sharing parking area Fuel-saving drive-through electronic toll station Traffic information and regulation signsSelective waste sorting Small energy-efficient building High Environmental Quality service area Solar panelsDigital radio transmitter broadcasting personalised in-vehicle information Pollution detention basin Reed filter water treatment basin HGV parking area Roadway made from recycled materials Solar-powered emergency telephone08View of a motorway in open count]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[TOMORROW'S MOTORWAY WILL BE GREENEREcological corridor linking natural areas off the motorway Large animal crossing Small animal crossing Car-sharing parking area Fuel-saving drive-through electronic toll station Traffic information and regulation signsSelective waste sorting Small energy-efficient building High Environmental Quality service area Solar panelsDigital radio transmitter broadcasting personalised in-vehicle information Pollution detention basin Reed filter water treatment basin HGV parking area Roadway made from recycled materials Solar-powered emergency telephone08View of a motorway in open count]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="11">
		<raw><![CDATA[Motorways are already adapting to the principles of eco-design and eco-management. In open country or urban settings alike, motorways will do more to protect the natural environment, to be better neighbours and provide greater convenience to users, while maintaining their already high safety levels. They will also cut their carbon emissions to combat the greenhouse effect. Some solutions will be more apparent to the eye than others, but they will undoubtedly change the face of the motorway as we know it: equipment, innovative solutions, eco-materials, etc. Some of them are pictured below.Noise barrierHard shoulder opened to buses at peak hoursFuel-saving drive-through electronic toll station Traffic information and regulation signsAcoustic road surfacingEnergy-efficient operations buildingPollution detention basinDigital radio transmitter broadcasting personalised in-vehicle informationConcrete lane separators, also suitable for use on roadworks sitesPark and ride facilityView of a suburban motorway]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[Motorways are already adapting to the principles of eco-design and eco-management. In open country or urban settings alike, motorways will do more to protect the natural environment, to be better neighbours and provide greater convenience to users, while maintaining their already high safety levels. They will also cut their carbon emissions to combat the greenhouse effect. Some solutions will be more apparent to the eye than others, but they will undoubtedly change the face of the motorway as we know it: equipment, innovative solutions, eco-materials, etc. Some of them are pictured below.Noise barrierHard shoulder opened to buses at peak hoursFuel-saving drive-through electronic toll station Traffic information and regulation signsAcoustic road surfacingEnergy-efficient operations buildingPollution detention basinDigital radio transmitter broadcasting personalised in-vehicle informationConcrete lane separators, also suitable for use on roadworks sitesPark and ride facilityView of a suburban motorway]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="12">
		<raw><![CDATA[ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORSNetwork in service MANAGEMENT Environmental training EXPENDITURE ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Operating expenditure (including maintenance) Environmental investment/total investment Operating expenditure/km in service RESOURCE CONSUMPTION Water consumption per km travelled by customers Aggregate coating materials Electricity consumption per km travelled by customers Fossil fuels Stand-alone photovoltaic systems BIODIVERSITY Crossings for large and small animals Total green spaces DISCHARGES/EMISSIONS Greenhouse gases resulting from our operations (vehicle fleet + buildings)* Consumption of plant protection products on green spaces Water protection infrastructure (basins + ditches) Length of motorway offering water resource protection, either natural or by means of structures tailored to specific vulnerability Accidents involving hazardous materials NOISE Homes protected during the year (NBS and other residents) WASTE Non-hazardous waste Hazardous waste Waste recycled Districts equipped for selective waste collectionUnitkm hours  thousands %  thousands/km m3/106/kmc million tonnes kWh/106/kmc TOE/106 kmc number number ha20072,596 400 19,450 12.60 7.49 27.51 0.88 2,682 0.23 1,905 293 9,84020082,639 673 21,320 9.60 8.08 25.05 0.62 2,577 0.22 1,914 340 9,986The motorways of today already incorporate many features designed to protect the environment. ASF's vision of the motorway of the future consists of a set of solutions to extend the reach of that approach and take it forward:optimising the · co-modality, i.e.with public transport interconnection systems; protection · noiseresidents; for the most exposed local · protection of water resources; · preservation of biodiversity; · traffic regulation to avoid congestion and minimise pollution emissions; · promotion of eco-driving; for new mobility · providingcar-sharing; solutions such as · service and rest areas that welcome all users; · infrastructure and worksites employing eco-materials and recycling; · energy restraint and generation of renewable energy; · a more &amp;quot;ecological&amp;quot; toll system.t CO2 l/ha number km number number tonnes tonnes % %19,716 1.43 1,504 1,934 7 50 8,227 114 30 28/30 = 9325,065 1.12 1,532 1,972 9 166 7,981 81 28 30/30 = 100kmc = kilometres travelled by customers TOE = tonnes of oil equivalent t = tonnes NBS = noise black spot * Applying the coefficients used in the ADEME carbon balance, version 3.0, April 2005 (to 2007). In 2008, using the VINCI method based on coefficients of the ADEME carbon balance, version 5.0, January 200]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORSNetwork in service MANAGEMENT Environmental training EXPENDITURE ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Operating expenditure (including maintenance) Environmental investment/total investment Operating expenditure/km in service RESOURCE CONSUMPTION Water consumption per km travelled by customers Aggregate coating materials Electricity consumption per km travelled by customers Fossil fuels Stand-alone photovoltaic systems BIODIVERSITY Crossings for large and small animals Total green spaces DISCHARGES/EMISSIONS Greenhouse gases resulting from our operations (vehicle fleet + buildings)* Consumption of plant protection products on green spaces Water protection infrastructure (basins + ditches) Length of motorway offering water resource protection, either natural or by means of structures tailored to specific vulnerability Accidents involving hazardous materials NOISE Homes protected during the year (NBS and other residents) WASTE Non-hazardous waste Hazardous waste Waste recycled Districts equipped for selective waste collectionUnitkm hours  thousands %  thousands/km m3/106/kmc million tonnes kWh/106/kmc TOE/106 kmc number number ha20072,596 400 19,450 12.60 7.49 27.51 0.88 2,682 0.23 1,905 293 9,84020082,639 673 21,320 9.60 8.08 25.05 0.62 2,577 0.22 1,914 340 9,986The motorways of today already incorporate many features designed to protect the environment. ASF's vision of the motorway of the future consists of a set of solutions to extend the reach of that approach and take it forward:optimising the · co-modality, i.e.with public transport interconnection systems; protection · noiseresidents; for the most exposed local · protection of water resources; · preservation of biodiversity; · traffic regulation to avoid congestion and minimise pollution emissions; · promotion of eco-driving; for new mobility · providingcar-sharing; solutions such as · service and rest areas that welcome all users; · infrastructure and worksites employing eco-materials and recycling; · energy restraint and generation of renewable energy; · a more &amp;quot;ecological&amp;quot; toll system.t CO2 l/ha number km number number tonnes tonnes % %19,716 1.43 1,504 1,934 7 50 8,227 114 30 28/30 = 9325,065 1.12 1,532 1,972 9 166 7,981 81 28 30/30 = 100kmc = kilometres travelled by customers TOE = tonnes of oil equivalent t = tonnes NBS = noise black spot * Applying the coefficients used in the ADEME carbon balance, version 3.0, April 2005 (to 2007). In 2008, using the VINCI method based on coefficients of the ADEME carbon balance, version 5.0, January 200]]></basicChars>
	</page>
	<page id="13">
		<raw><![CDATA[THE A89: A WORKSITE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDSWork on the Balbigny­La Tour de Salvagny section of the A89 motorway takes full account of environmental considerations. Operating in a natural environment where the balances are fragile, ASF is meeting the challenge through &amp;quot;Building with the ecologists&amp;quot;, a ground-breaking programme of consultation with environmental groups. A STREAM UNDER THE MICROSCOPEDownhill from the site, the Boussuivre stream comes in for constant monitoring. ASF has spared no effort to protect a watercourse that is home to several protected species such as the white-clawed crayfish or the yellow-bellied toad. An opaque fence installed as soon as work began restricts the movements of plant and workers to the site area alone. ASF has also built 10 temporary water retention basins. The water is then collected, decanted and filtered before being released into the Boussuivre. Biological testing of the stream water is carried out at regular intervals.A CRAYFISH FARMNever before has the white-clawed crayfish been the subject of such an intensive protection programme. In the unlikely event of accidental pollution, which could destroy large numbers of the crayfish, ASF asked the Besançon Natural History Museum to collect a number of specimens from the Boussuivre and breed them for subsequent reintroduction into the stream. This is the first time such a protection measure has been applied to this seriously endangered species.Head Office 9, place de l'Europe 92851 Rueil-Malmaison Cedex, France Tel: +33 (0)1 72 71 90 00 www.asf.frLEARNING FROM THE ENVIRONMENTTo make a success of integrating the motorway into this particularly sensitive site, ASF decided to work closely with nature and environmental protection organisations, leading to the production of an environmental charter for the site. Under its terms, all teams working on the site have been made aware of the vulnerability of the natural environment thanks to a unique training course designed and presented by the organisations involved.If the approach currently being tried out on the A89 Balbigny­La Tour de Salvagny motorway was applied on all current or future major construction projects, it would be an encouraging sign that biodiversity conservation and consideration for environmental issues were at last beginning to be taken seriously, assuming concrete results are achieved.Daniel Ariagno, Fédération Rhône-Alpes de Protection de la Nature (FRAPNA)Photos: ASF's pictures library, Francis Vigouroux, Axel Heise, Sylvie Curty-Studio PIXIE, Michel Garnier, Francis Mainard ­ design and layout: avantgarde ­ legal deposit: May 2009 -- RCS ASF Nanterre 572 139 9]]></raw>
		<basicChars><![CDATA[THE A89: A WORKSITE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDSWork on the Balbigny­La Tour de Salvagny section of the A89 motorway takes full account of environmental considerations. Operating in a natural environment where the balances are fragile, ASF is meeting the challenge through &amp;quot;Building with the ecologists&amp;quot;, a ground-breaking programme of consultation with environmental groups. A STREAM UNDER THE MICROSCOPEDownhill from the site, the Boussuivre stream comes in for constant monitoring. ASF has spared no effort to protect a watercourse that is home to several protected species such as the white-clawed crayfish or the yellow-bellied toad. An opaque fence installed as soon as work began restricts the movements of plant and workers to the site area alone. ASF has also built 10 temporary water retention basins. The water is then collected, decanted and filtered before being released into the Boussuivre. Biological testing of the stream water is carried out at regular intervals.A CRAYFISH FARMNever before has the white-clawed crayfish been the subject of such an intensive protection programme. In the unlikely event of accidental pollution, which could destroy large numbers of the crayfish, ASF asked the Besancon Natural History Museum to collect a number of specimens from the Boussuivre and breed them for subsequent reintroduction into the stream. This is the first time such a protection measure has been applied to this seriously endangered species.Head Office 9, place de l'Europe 92851 Rueil-Malmaison Cedex, France Tel: +33 (0)1 72 71 90 00 www.asf.frLEARNING FROM THE ENVIRONMENTTo make a success of integrating the motorway into this particularly sensitive site, ASF decided to work closely with nature and environmental protection organisations, leading to the production of an environmental charter for the site. Under its terms, all teams working on the site have been made aware of the vulnerability of the natural environment thanks to a unique training course designed and presented by the organisations involved.If the approach currently being tried out on the A89 Balbigny­La Tour de Salvagny motorway was applied on all current or future major construction projects, it would be an encouraging sign that biodiversity conservation and consideration for environmental issues were at last beginning to be taken seriously, assuming concrete results are achieved.Daniel Ariagno, Federation Rhone-Alpes de Protection de la Nature (FRAPNA)Photos: ASF's pictures library, Francis Vigouroux, Axel Heise, Sylvie Curty-Studio PIXIE, Michel Garnier, Francis Mainard ­ design and layout: avantgarde ­ legal deposit: May 2009 -- RCS ASF Nanterre 572 139 9]]></basicChars>
	</page>

</searchText>
