An innovative partnership is aiming to see recycled plastics from kerbside and industrial waste used for modular tram stop platforms, making Melbourne's tram network sustainable, more accessible for people with disabilities, and easier to maintain.
Model of the recycled plastic modular tram Stop platform
The Monash Institute of Railway Technology (Monash IRT) and Yarra Trams have partnered with industry (PACT group, GT Recycling, DKSH Australia, Integrated Recycling) to research, design and develop recycled plastic modular components which may be used to progressively replace tram stop platforms across Melbourne, the largest tram network in the world.
The project creates a circular economy framework covering the full lifecycle of recycled materials, from supply to end use.
Professor Ravi Ravitharan, Director of Monash IRT said Monash IRT plays a vital role in supporting improved sustainability in railways.
"Unlike traditional tram stop platforms, this new modular design offers a cost-effective, sustainable and accessible solution," Professor Ravitharan said.
"The design of this product offers a more sustainable solution to build new platform stops and encourages local communities to improve segregation of materials for recycling and reduce waste destined for landfill."
The project was funded under the Circular Economy Research & Development Fund, delivered by Sustainability Victoria under the Victorian Government's circular economy policy, Recycling Victoria: a new economy
Matt Genever, CEO of Sustainability Victoria, said the project demonstrates the power of cross-sector collaboration in delivering real-world circular economy solutions.
"By developing next-generation tram stop platforms from recycled materials, we're rethinking how we use resources – transforming waste into smart, sustainable infrastructure."
Vincent Destot, Chief Executive Officer at Yarra Trams, said the innovative project would work to support sustainability efforts across Melbourne's tram network.
"This sustainable solution has been developed alongside industry and Monash University, with the potential to significantly reduce our environmental impact, and improve sustainability on the world's largest tram network."
Monash University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise) Professor Robyn Ward AM, said the project reflects the University's commitment to industry collaboration that delivers real-world impact.
"We're proud to support this important partnership between Monash's Institute of Railway Technology, Yarra Trams, Sustainability Victoria, and our industry collaborators. It's a strong example of how research, when connected with industry, can drive innovation and generate meaningful outcomes for society," Professor Ward said.
The project involved interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers at Monash University from Monash IRT, Faculty of Engineering and Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA).
About Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT)
Since 2000, Monash IRT has worked with over 170 railway entities globally and on more than 700 translational research projects.
The Institute is the premier track and vehicle research centre in Australia and enjoys an international reputation for excellence in railway research. Internationally recognised researchers and practitioners join the IRT team, providing 'whole of industry' solutions to the expanded needs of railway advancement.
The Institute is renowned for its comprehensive and systematic approaches to problem solving using its team of experienced technical specialists.
