EGC 2026 – 4th European GREEN Conference

26-29 May 2026 | Vodice, CROATIA

Plenary Speaker

From Design to Operation: A Holistic Green Approach to Modern Motorway Development

Abstract
The invitation to deliver a plenary lecture at the 4th European GREEN Conference (EGC 2026) represents an opportunity to present an integrated approach to environmental protection in the context of the planning, construction, management, and maintenance of the Istrian Y motorway. The lecture will focus on the application of green construction principles, including the use of innovative materials such as “green concrete” with a reduced CO₂ footprint, as well as the optimization of construction processes to minimize environmental impact. Special attention will be given to the sustainable management of rest areas and traffic, including the introduction of electric vehicle charging stations and energy-efficient solutions such as lighting, traffic management systems, ventilation, and related technologies. In the field of water and soil protection, emphasis will be placed on drainage and treatment systems for stormwater and roadway runoff, the protection of water sources in the Učka Tunnel, as well as the responsible management of surplus materials generated during construction and maintenance. The lecture will also cover noise reduction measures and environmental protection from traffic impacts, including the use of barriers and nature-based solutions. An important segment will address biodiversity conservation through the implementation of wildlife protection measures. The Istrian Y motorway will be presented as an example of modern transport infrastructure that integrates technical excellence with responsible environmental management, contributing to long-term sustainability and alignment with European green policies.

Short biography

Dario Silić obtained his PhD in 2003 in Economic Sciences, specializing in Money, Finance, and International Trade, from Lumière Lyon 2 University in France, where he also completed his master’s and undergraduate studies. He currently serves as Vice President of the French-Croatian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also holds the position of General Director of the concession company Bina Istra d.d., where he is responsible for financing, construction, and management of the Istrian Y motorway. Dario Silić has been a long-standing lecturer and external associate at business schools such as SSBM Geneva and Paris School of Management, where he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Financial Management, Corporate Finance, Company Valuation, and Financial Statement Analysis. His previous positions include serving as a financial advisor on numerous infrastructure projects in international finance, such as the Bombela rapid rail project in Johannesburg, South Africa, the M5 motorway in Hungary, and various concession projects in South Korea, Jamaica, France, and elsewhere. Among his more recent projects are the concession and construction of the new terminal at Zagreb International Airport. Dario Silić has conducted research and published numerous papers on project finance, the European Union, and innovation.

e-mail: ured@bina-istra.hr

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