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The Future is Plastic ... Bridges
ches_grin writes "BusinessWeek reports on the latest in bridge-building technology, where new materials and techniques are allowing bridges to be built in places that were previously thought impossible. New plastics are allowing bridges to be lighter and stronger than concrete, and 'using cables and new suspension techniques, these bridges traverse bodies of water that were once too deep, too soft-floored, or too earthquake-prone for conventional methods.' The article also includes a slideshow of some of the most innovative bridges, some still under construction."
I would also like to know how long-term UV exposure affects the structural properties of this material. Most plastics and polymers break down over time with prolonged UV exposure. Of course, it is being built in England, not known for its overly sunny climate.
Presumably, one of these plastic bridges is going to stick around for a very, very long time. The only time we'd have to worry about recycling or disposing of a plastic bridge is if it completely fails and collapses. Depending on what the bridge is made of, the materials from the bridge may or may not be recycled - I'm sure there's a way, though. In the very least, it can be ground up into tiny bits and used for insulation or something.
That said, I don't think anyone is wondering what we're going to do with the Golden Gate Bridge once we're done with it. Structures like these are made to last, not to be thrown away.