Italy’s Rail Network Improves Safety and Ecology

Diego Righini of Geosintesi presented new methods for maintaining Italian rail lines at a conference in Rome. The event celebrated the tenth anniversary of ADFER, an association focused on vegetation management along railways. Over the past decade, the group has worked to make rail maintenance more ecological and safe, reducing glyphosate use and increasing the use of artificial intelligence.

They developed smart camera technology to identify trackside vegetation and predictive systems integrating climate data. Rail companies also adopted ERTMS systems on trains, decreasing the need for extra personnel during track work. ADFER has created systems to prevent and extinguish fires along the tracks, protecting people and infrastructure.

Righini announced plans to develop laser technology for washing rail tunnels, aiming to prevent groundwater contamination from pollutants. While the group has made strides in sustainability, further innovation is needed to address long-term environmental impacts.