Implementation of reuse and recycling strategies in railway infrastructure: insights from a case study

This paper examines the implementation of reuse and recycling strategies within the railway infrastructure sector through a case study of ProRail, the Dutch railway infrastructure manager. The case study focuses on reuse and recycling strategies for railway sleepers and switches and explores how ProRail implements these strategies using an agile project management approach. It provides insights into key factors for implementing reuse and recycling strategies, including defining reuse and recycling concepts, conducting a thorough stakeholder analysis, compiling an inventory of existing initiatives, and monitoring performance. Additionally, the study investigates these strategies’ environmental impact and identifies areas for improvement. The need to adjust processes and regulations and to create effective governance structures emerged as essential, along with ensuring compliance with sustainability directives such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The insights gained from this case study can help other organizations pragmatically overcome challenges in implementing reuse and recycling strategies, ultimately advancing their circular economy objectives.