GREEN 2026 – 4th European GREEN Conference

26-29 May 2026 | Vodice, CROATIA

Plenary Speaker

Sustainable Management and Environmental Protection on the Istrian Y Motorway

Abstract
This paper presents an integrated approach to environmental protection in the planning, construction, management, and maintenance of the Istrian Y motorway system. The presentation focuses on implementing sustainable construction principles through innovative materials, including “green concrete” with a reduced CO₂ footprint, and optimizing construction processes to minimize environmental impact. Particular attention is given to the sustainable management of rest areas and traffic infrastructure, including the introduction of EV charging stations and energy-efficient solutions related to lighting, traffic management, and tunnel ventilation systems. In the field of water and soil protection, emphasis is placed on drainage and treatment systems for stormwater and roadway runoff, the protection of water sources in the Učka Tunnel area, and the responsible disposal and reuse of excess construction materials generated during construction and maintenance activities. The presentation also addresses measures to reduce noise and mitigate traffic-related environmental impacts through both technical barriers and nature-based solutions. A significant segment is dedicated to biodiversity conservation through the implementation of wildlife protection measures. The Istrian Y is presented as an example of modern transport infrastructure that combines technical excellence with environmentally responsible 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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