Digital tools and improved data are essential for extending the life of road networks as highways face increasingly severe climate changes and alternative mobility demands.
To this extent, infrastructure, data and digitalisation must be treated as one, according to Dimitrios Mandalozis, president of the International Road Federation, IRF.
The goals are to extend asset life, improve safety for all asset users and reduce lifecycle emissions, said Mandalozis, speaking at the 88th session of the recent United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Inland Transport Committee in Geneva, Switzerland. He pointed out that roads are evolving from static assets into performance-based systems.
He mentioned the role of IRF’s own World Road Statistics (WRS), published annually since 1964. “Drawing on national data and aligned with internationally harmonised definitions, WRS now covers more than 200 countries and territories and over 200 indicators across 11 thematic areas. It supports benchmarking, policy evaluation and planning at national and international levels.
“Besides data, to support the implementation of the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport, IRF and a coalition of partners have committed to helping countries strengthen how roads are planned, designed, financed and managed to address the social, environmental and economic challenges of the decade ahead,” he said.
At the core of this commitment is a series of implementation roadmaps that translate the Decade’s objectives into practical guidance for the road sector. These roadmaps will emphasise data-driven decision-making, digital asset management systems, innovation in materials and design, among other key issues.
“In parallel, IRF is also active in many international initiatives that advance connected and automated mobility, ensuring that digitalisation and innovation improve road safety and more efficient traffic operations,” said Mandalozis. The IRF works with infrastructure operators, technology providers and research institutions to “bridge the gap” between research and deployment. “These initiatives reinforce the principle that digital transformation must be integrated into infrastructure governance, standards and operational frameworks from the outset.”
IRF Annual Conference 2026 will be held in Geneva from November 16-18.
