The rail sector has always been one of the greener modes of transport. But as climate targets tighten and projects grow in complexity, sustainability is no longer optional. It is now a baseline expectation.
This shift covers every stage of development. From energy-efficient construction methods to smarter material use and community impact planning, sustainability is central to long-term rail infrastructure.
At ETS, we recognise this growing need. The workforce must not only understand sustainable practices but also apply them confidently on site. We respond by embedding sustainability into our Skills Bootcamps and employer-focused programmes. As a trusted training provider in construction and rail, ETS ensures learners gain the skills needed for a greener future.
“It’s no longer just about building quickly or cheaply,” says Lee Johnson, CEO of ETS. “It’s about building responsibly, minimising waste, conserving energy and designing with future generations in mind. Our job is to make sure learners come in ready to support that mission.”
Lee Johnson, CEO of ETS
The Green Shift in Rail
Modern rail infrastructure projects are embracing greener practices across the board. From the adoption of electric and hybrid machinery to the integration of recycled materials and low-carbon concrete, innovation is being driven by both policy and purpose. The UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy and initiatives like Network Rail’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy are setting the tone, calling for a supply chain and workforce that are not only compliant but actively contributing to carbon reduction and resilience.
This shift is changing the landscape of required skills. It’s no longer enough to know how to lay track or manage a site. Workers need to understand sustainable drainage, ecological impact and the importance of lifecycle planning in infrastructure design.
ETS’s Role: Training for a Sustainable Future
ETS’s training programmes are designed in close collaboration with employers, ensuring that learners gain the skills needed for today’s and tomorrow’s rail projects. Sustainability is embedded throughout our curriculum: from teaching efficient resource use and environmentally responsible site practices, to exploring how infrastructure can be planned and maintained with minimal ecological disruption.
Our tutors bring real, world experience to the classroom, helping learners connect green theory with practical action. This ensures every trainee leaves not only with the technical know-how but with a mindset geared towards sustainable delivery.
“We’re preparing people to be part of a future, facing industry,” says Johnson. “Whether it’s reducing waste, improving efficiency, or working on electrified routes, our learners are being trained to think beyond the task at hand.”
Collaborating with Industry for Long, Term Impact
ETS also works directly with employers to ensure our sustainability training aligns with evolving industry standards. As businesses face increasing ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) responsibilities, having a workforce that understands and supports those goals is critical. By investing in training with sustainability at its core, companies can not only meet compliance requirements but also improve reputation, win environmentally conscious contracts, and future-proof their operations.
The Path Ahead
The journey toward fully sustainable rail infrastructure will require collaboration, innovation and above all, skilled people. At ETS, we’re proud to be part of that journey, supporting individuals into meaningful careers and helping businesses meet the growing demands of a greener economy.
Interested in how ETS can support your workforce in delivering sustainable infrastructure? Get in touch to explore our training solutions for the rail sector.
