UIC is delighted to invite you to the 7th Zero Waste Railways workshop, to be held on 17-19 November in Weinheim, Germany.
Titled “Circularity beyond zero: Going further than sustainability”, this edition of the UIC Zero Waste workshop series will explore circularity initiatives that not only minimise environmental impact but generate positive environmental outcomes within the rail sector.
For the first time, UIC will be partnering with the supplier nora by Interface, a company specialised in premium rubber flooring solutions. Renowned for its pioneering work in circular economy, biomimicry, and “beyond zero” practices, nora by Interface will offer participants an immersive experience in the practical application of circular economy principles.
Draft programme:
Day 1: Monday 17 November
Inspiration from Interface’s “all in” approach
Interface will share on their journey to achieving zero impact and a net positive ecological footprint with a screening of their film “Beyond Zero”. A short introductory discussion will follow, etting the stage for deeper exploration on Day 2.
Day 2: Tuesday 18 November
Innovation and circularity in practice
The second day of the event will begin with an introduction by nora by Interface, outlining their approach to innovation and circularity, including a focus on their services for the transport sector. This will be followed by a guided tour of the factory and inlay centre, offering a firsthand look at the production process. The visit will showcase how Interface’s “All in” circular economy strategy can inspire practical, circular design solutions for the rail sector, with measurable environmental benefits.
The following workshop session is designed to encourage interaction and collaboration, exploring the potential of circular products across various rail sector categories and identifying opportunities for broader implementation. Best practices will be shared through insights from circular economy experts in both the rail supply industry and other sectors, with a particular emphasis on experiences involving circular, bio-based materials, biomimicry, and nature-based innovations.
Experts will present successful circular initiatives and shed light on emerging technologies, exploring how data and artificial intelligence can support “beyond zero” circular applications in rail – solutions that not only reduce impact but generate positive environmental effects.
To add a hands-on element, the afternoon will include a 30-minute break featuring a technical demonstration by nora by Interface on train flooring installation.
Call for speakers
We welcome submissions on the above topics from:
- Environmental specialists, circular economy experts, and sustainability consultants across the rail value chain
- Railway sustainability officers and experts in circular economy, eco-design, bio-based materials, biomimicry, and nature-based innovations
- Data scientists and analytics professionals working in circular economy
- Academic researchers in sustainable transport and circular economy
- Policy experts and regulatory specialists
- Industry associations and NGOs
Submission guidelines
Please register your interest by providing the title and a short description of your proposed presentation, along with a brief speaker bio (optional). Submissions will be evaluated based on relevance for the workshop theme.
Important information
- Format: In-person workshop
- Location & date: 17-18 November, Weinheim, Germany
- Presentation duration: Approx. 20 minutes + Q&A
- Language: English
- Submission deadline: 20 October 2025.
Registration
Secure your place here: https://uic.org/events/7th-zero-waste-railways-workshop
UIC is committed to advancing railway sustainability through knowledge sharing and collaboration. We look forward to your contributions to this vital industry discussion on circular economy and environmental responsibility in the railway sector.
