Building circular value chains from train recycling

How can trains live on, even after retirement?
Together with Norske tog and Hellik Teigen, we explored how to turn retired trains into valuable material resources.
The result: a practical roadmap for circularity in the railway sector.

BACKGROUND

Norske tog manages the full lifecycle of Norway’s passenger trains, from purchase to end-of-life. When trains are retired, reusable parts are dismantled, but many materials still go unrecovered. In collaboration with Hellik Teigen, we supported Norske tog in identifying circular opportunities to increase recycling, reduce waste, and recover more value.

CHALLENGE

Complex materials in trains make recycling difficult. Some parts are easy to recover, but many are low-value, mixed, or costly to process in small volumes. Buyers often prefer primary materials due to their lower prices and greater traceability. The lack of data, demand, and recycling infrastructure limits the circular potential of valuable industrial waste streams.

SOLUTION

We analysed all primary material flows from decommissioned trains. Through screening, data mapping, and technical evaluation, we identified which materials had the best recycling or substitution potential. The result is a scalable framework for circular material assessment, designed to support future dismantling, procurement, and innovation.

RESULT

The final report gave Norske tog a clear roadmap for material recovery. It includes prioritised fractions, recycling options, and actionable next steps. The outcome supports compliance with circular economy goals. It paves the way for better end-of-life decisions, scalable recycling strategies, and improved sustainability reporting.

KEY TAKE AWAYS

Recycling reduces climate impact and makes better use of valuable resources.
By recovering materials from existing products, we cut the need for virgin resources and lower emissions from new production.
Current recycling systems are often costly due to fragmented value chains and underdeveloped infrastructure.
To make circularity scalable, we need stronger collaboration, smarter logistics, and targeted investments.
Sustainability must be practical, not just visionary.
The most effective circular solutions balance environmental goals with technical and economic realities.
Design with circularity in mind.
Smart material and construction choices at the start make reuse and recycling much easier at the end-of-life.