UIC is extremely pleased to invite you to the seventh instalment of the UIC Zero Waste Railways workshop series.
For the first time, UIC will be partnering with the supplier nora® by Interface®nora® by Interface®, a company specialized in premium rubber flooring solutions.
Well known for pioneering in circular economy, beyond zero and biomimicry practices, nora® by Interface® will offer participants an immersive experience of practical application of circular economy.
The event will offer participants a deep dive on how Interface’s “All in” circular economy strategy can inspire practical, circular design solutions for the rail sector, with measurable environmental benefits.
Draft program:
Day 1 – 10 February
Inspiration from Interface’s “All in” approach
On Tuesday 10 February 2026, nora® by Interface® will share on their journey to achieving ‘zero’ impact and ‘net positive ecological footprint’ with a screening of their film “Beyond Zero”. A short introductory discussion will follow to prepare for discussions on day 2.
Day 2 – 11 February 2026
On Tuesday, the second day of the event will begin with an introduction by nora® by Interface®, presenting their approach to innovation and circularity, including a focus on their services for the transportation sector. This opening will include a guided tour of the factory and the inlay center, offering a first-hand look at the production process.
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 promoted 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.
Confirmed Program Highlights:
- nora®by Interface® to host event with film-screening session, factory tours, demos and presentations
- ProRail - Quinty Soede & Frank Schadewijk
- Presentation on biobased materials “The Wood Revolution in Europe” – Implementation examples at stations and platform covers
- NS (Dutch Railways) - Ilse Van Eekeren: Ongoing biomimicry projects for circular train design, Circular Public Transport Covenant – A joint commitment to a fully circular system, “Future Proof Index Report” by Erasmus University Rotterdam on the social value of rail
- Bane NOR - Dereje Asefa: Strategies and initiatives for Circular Economy in Norwegian rail
- Pallet Control Tower (PCT) - Bart Meijnen: Collaboration with ÖBB/RCG/EUR to improve global EUR pallet management, current status, perspectives, and benefits for UIC members
- Interactive workshop session on Circularity Beyond Zero: Advancing Positive Impact in Rail, Breakout table discussions using RSSB Sustainability Maturity Tool, Moderated by Samuel Jones, RSSB and Chair CE Sector
To further add a hands-on element, the afternoon will include a 30-minute break featuring a technical demonstration by nora® by Interface® on how to install flooring in a train.
Important information:
- Target audience: Sustainability and circularity railway experts from railway companies, from the railway supply industry, researchers and students, academia, NGOs, and delegates from business associations of the railway sector.
- Event format: In-person attendance preferred
- Location & Date: nora systems GmbH, Weinheim, Germany
- Date: 10-11 Feb 2026
- Registration: The number of places is limited, it is therefore recommended to book early to secure your seat ==> Register here
Our host and sponsor
The UIC is committed to advancing railway sustainability through knowledge sharing and collaboration. We look forward to your valuable contributions to this important industry discussion on how circular economy can contribute to environmental responsibility in the railway sector.