18-19 June 2025
Porterbrook’s Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre

A closer look: The Sustainability Zone at Rail Live 2025

As we continue our celebration of 200 years of the modern railway, it’s not just about looking back, it’s also about looking ahead. At Rail Live 2025, we’ll be explaining how we’re helping to build a greener, more sustainable railway for future generations — with a dedicated sustainability exhibit.

 

 

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Network Rail

Ideal greener railway

For the first time, Rail Live will feature a dedicated Sustainability Zone - and it’s set to be a real showstopper. Found in Zone M, stand M256, the exhibit will brings the 'ideal green railway' to life, whilst not turning a blind eye to the not so ideal and challenges we face.

The track itself will tell a powerful story, built entirely from recycled and repurposed materials. It will enable us to talk about reused track and innovative composite sleepers made from recyclable materials, like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and fibre-reinforced foam urethane (FFU). Alongside this, we will showcase real-world examples of how we’re cutting our carbon footprint, exploring emerging solutions like green steel, and using materials designed to stand the test of time.

Ask the experts

At the Sustainability Zone, you’ll have the chance to meet our team of experts and discuss topics such as ecology, biodiversity, decarbonisation, circular economy, and greener railway strategy in specific ‘Ask the expert’ sessions.

The Biodiversity Ecology Tours will be run hourly from 10am to 3pm. Meet at the Sustainability Stand (M256) for guided tours from Network Rail & the Tree Council.

Hear from Dr Neil Strong, Biodiversity Strategy Manager at Network Rail on what to expect at this year's Rail Live ➡️

"It’s really important for us to exhibit at Rail Live. It’s an opportunity to show literally thousands of rail professionals the positive steps we’re taking to run a railway safely and efficiently, but also support nature's recovery with nature-based solutions. And in turn, discuss new ideas for an even greener future of rail."
Dr Neil Strong
Biodiversity Strategy Manager |  Network Rail

Collaboration in a new setup

At Rail Live 2025, Network Rail is taking a fresh approach. Instead of one large space, we’ll be spread throughout the site, reflecting how greater integration with our industry partners is shaping the future of rail.

You’ll find two dedicated Network Rail villages this year: an off-track village in Zone W and an on-track village in Zone K.

Off-Track Village

Our off-track village will feature innovations like Electrical Safety Delivery, PodFlo, Innovation Acceleration Forum, the Structures Exam Academy, PinPoint (Digital Factory), RD&I, Commercial & Procurement, Product Acceptance, Employee Networks, Apprenticeships & Graduates, Sentinel, RailHub, Standards & Control, and our Railway 200 showcase.

On-Track Village

Over in the on-track village, you’ll find the Mobile Maintenance Train, Track Renewal Allicances, Freight and Electric Road Fleet.

Separate key exhibits will be amongst our partners’ stands in Zone W and Zone M, including Biodiversity, Environment & Sustainability (stand M256), Engineering Services, and our Drive Safe initiative.

And it’s not just the exhibits that are sustainable. Our villages will be powered by solar panels and mobile wind turbines, helping to demonstrate our commitment to a greener railway.

Why you should attend

By attending Rail Live, you’ll get a real sense of how we’re growing belief in the future of rail, embracing innovation, and keeping safety at the heart of everything we do. It’s a chance to get inspired, connect with colleagues and partners, and see the future first-hand.