Why Rail Net Zero Starts With Real Strategy, Not Buzzwords

Rail Net Zero isn’t a marketing tagline — it’s a complex infrastructure challenge that demands real alignment between ambition and action

According to Network Rail’s sustainability leads, the industry is full of climate ambition, but light on clear delivery frameworks. “The

climate strategy is clear — it’s the operational roadmap we lack.” That gap between policy and implementation is widening just as scrutiny intensifies.

At RNZ 2025, this challenge is front and centre. The opening panel convenes DfT, RSSB, Network Rail, and leading European operators to examine how to align national policy, regulatory frameworks, and project delivery timelines. We’ll ask:

• Why has the UK fallen behind on electrification planning?

• How do rolling stock strategies fit into national net zero plans?

• What mechanisms drive long-term investment confidence?

  
  

We believe decarbonisation success depends on bold governance, credible planning and empowered delivery teams — not rebranded targets.

Join us in London this October and help turn strategy into action