The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has released Circular opportunities in rail, providing industry with policy advice, practical guidance and case studies to support a more sustainable future for rail.

The report is a guidance document offering information and examples for rail organisations looking to increase the circularity of their operations to support greater use of re-used, recycled and re-purposed materials in the industry.

ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie welcomed the report’s practical advice, clear policy guidance and real-world examples.

“Circular opportunities in rail forms part of the ARA’s commitment to advocate for solutions that maximise the sustainability benefits rail provides and create opportunities to reduce waste, conserve raw materials, reduce pollution and limit emissions,” Ms Wilkie said.

“With circular solutions increasingly becoming a requirement in construction project specifications, this guide offers real-world advice for rail organisations seeking to increase their focus on this critical issue.”

Circular opportunities in rail shares real-world case studies of the circular economy in action from organisations including Aurecon, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM), the Public Transport Authority of WA (PTA WA), Victoria’s Level Crossing Removals Project, Aurizon, Yarra Trams and PowerRail Australia.

It outlines practical guidance for both rail suppliers and organisations leading project delivery and maintenance.

The report also provides an overview of recycled materials that can be used in the rail industry and gives examples of circular design principles on rail projects.

The ARA is proud to work towards a shift to a more circular economy across Australia and New Zealand, which will improve environmental outcomes, drive resource efficiency and encourage innovation.

Download the report here: https://ara.net.au/wp-content/uploads/Circular-opportunities-in-rail_FINAL_10062026.pdf