Discover how the extended tram line 25 not only connects Amsterdam-Zuid and Uithoorn, but also actively contributes to combating global warming.
Thanks to the application of greenSand Semi-hardening on the inspection paths , carbon dioxide is permanently captured from the atmosphere along this route, which directly helps to reduce climate change.
Project data
Location: Amsterdam South - Uithoorn (Tram line 25)
Client: Vossloh ETS
Project start: 2023 (commissioned 2024)
Applied material: greenSand Semi-hard surface
Carbon Removal potential: 843 tonnes of CO₂
The greenSand Inspection Path
In 2023, the route of tram line 25 from Amsterdam-Zuid to Amstelveen was extended to Uithoorn. For this important infrastructure project, commissioned by railway specialist Vossloh ETS , we supplied the paving for the adjacent inspection paths.
Over 900 tons of greenSand semi-hard surfacing were used. This material creates a sturdy, water-permeable, and weed-resistant path, essential for workers conducting inspections along the line.
The most remarkable thing, however, is the permanent CO₂ capture that this path achieves, an active step in the fight against global warming.
Photo: Vossloh ETS: Laura ten Have Krieger
How greenSand works
The unique property of greenSand lies in the natural weathering of the rock that is rich in the mineral olivine. When olivine comes into contact with water (e.g. rain) and CO₂ from the air, a chemical reaction takes place. The CO₂ is converted and permanently stored . Removing CO₂ is a crucial factor in reducing global warming.
Climate-conscious choices on the Uithoorn line
The commitment to a better climate was already a key priority during the design of the Uithoornlijn tender. For example, various environmentally friendly measures were implemented, such as the use of electric vehicles and various materials with a lower ecological footprint .
This project is an example of how active climate solutions can enrich the construction and operational processes of infrastructure projects and contribute to combating global warming.
Our client, Vossloh ETS, is a trusted partner in the field of railway equipment. They included greenSand in their tender submission because of the rock's simple way of capturing CO₂.
Photo: Vossloh ETS: Laura ten Have Krieger
greenSands additionality
greenSand can significantly contribute to Net-Zero objectives within civil projects.
To ensure cost-effectiveness and to be able to compete with alternatives that do not make a positive climate contribution, we offered greenSand at a high discount in exchange for the CO₂ rights. These rights are now, after project certification by ONCRA, sold as tradable CDR credits on the Voluntary Credit Market (VCM).
Purpose of the credits: "The proceeds from the sale of these CDR credits are invested in further cost reduction and serve as an incentive to invest in a Net-Zero future.
By purchasing these credits, you invest directly in projects that actively remove CO₂ from the air and thus help reduce global warming. You can use these credits to compensate for your own footprint that cannot (yet) be reduced, or to compensate for historical emissions.
