Why the Drive Towards Sustainable Rail Is About Much More Than Power

Rail is set to play a key role in the sustainable future of transportation, alongside innovative solutions for road and air.

Rail’s position in sustainable transportation is unique. A February 2022 Boston Consulting Group report highlights that “no form of mass transport has more potential to aid in the fight against global warming than rail. It is one of the most energy-efficient transport modes, responsible for 9% of global motorized passenger movement and 7% of freight shipping—but only 3% of transport energy use”.

In considering how rail will deliver on its potential, the focus is naturally on carbon neutral power, and how investments in electrification and alternative sources are putting rail front and center in sustainable travel.

However, while this is a key component in making rail future-ready, today’s drive to rail sustainability encompasses the whole value chain, from rolling stock and infrastructure design, through manufacturing, to all aspects of operation, including customer experience.

This blog looks at how elements of this value chain contribute to this bigger picture, highlighting printed electronic materials as a specific example of how innovation is contributing to rail sustainability in ways you might not expect.

It highlights how Henkel’s pedigree, expertise and record of partnership in materials technology, including printed electronic materials, puts it at the forefront of sustainable rail innovation.

Taking a Holistic View of Sustainable Rail

Innovation in every element of the value chain, from infrastructure to rolling stock to customer experience, is driving rail sustainability.

A June 2022 Railtech.com article highlights sustainability innovations in rail infrastructure, such as the use of a V-shaped open cutting with grass slopes instead of concrete retaining walls for an elevated section of the UK HS2 rail project, by main contractor Balfour Beatty Vinci.

In the area of rolling stock, SNCF is just one example of a major rail company that has recognized the importance of developing lighter, stronger, more recyclable materials which can be assembled into more energy-efficient units, using production methods that minimize resource use and maximize efficiency to optimize their environmental footprint.

Delivering an excellent passenger experience is vital for rail to deliver its full environmental potential. The greater the number of people who choose rail for some journeys, the greater its contribution to sustainability.

New, stronger and lighter materials are enabling creation of more passenger space and lighter, airier cabins, all whilst maintaining the highest possible safety levels.

Internet of Things (IoT) technology delivers smart cabins that adjust light and heat according to conditions, saving power and creating a more comfortable passenger experience.

Henkel contributes to innovation in rail sustainability with a portfolio of adhesives, proven across rail, aerospace and automotive, that offer best of breed solutions for structural strength, flexible bonding, sealing and sound insulation.

Combining lightweight materials with Henkel structural adhesives delivers the construction solutions that a holistic approach to sustainable rail demands.