---
title: "Lyon Tram Network – France"
url: "https://www.systra.com/uk/project/lyon-tram-network-france/"
type: projects
date_published: 2023-11-20
date_modified: 2026-05-12
schema:
  @type: WebPage
language: en-GB
word_count: 635
reading_time: 4 min
canonical: "https://www.systra.com/uk/project/lyon-tram-network-france/"
featured_image: "https://www.systra.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/11/lyon-tram.jpeg"
type-market:
  - "Cities & Urban Mobility"
project-market:
  - "Cities & Urban Mobility"
project-location:
  - International
---

# Lyon Tram Network – France

**In response to the extreme temperatures of the summer of 2023, coined as ‘global boiling,’ Lyon, France, faced significant challenges in maintaining habitability. The city enlisted the expertise of engineering and consultancy firm SYSTRA to design its new T10 tram line with a strong focus on sustainability.**

SYSTRA’s Sustainable Design & Construction Framework emerged as a groundbreaking
approach, supported by the CarbonTracker tool. This framework dissects the
project into systems and sub-systems, allowing for the application of
eco-friendly designs and minimising the carbon footprint.

### SYSTRA’s Sustainable Mission

A key aspect of SYSTRA’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the trackbed
design of the T10 tram line. Utilising CarbonTracker, the team opted for a grass
track platform, reducing the need for concrete and enhancing water drainage;
crucial for a city prone to heavy storms.

### The Sustainable Design & Construction Framework

The holistic sustainability approach includes advocating for localised
construction materials, minimising environmental impact. Strategically placed
trees along the tram route serve dual purposes—replacing lost greenery during
construction and creating ‘islands of freshness’ to provide shade and enhance
biodiversity.

[Discover more here](https://www.systra.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/11/tramway-by-systra-group-2.pdf)

![421-422_taut2311_systra-lyon-1](https://www.systra.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/11/421-422_taut2311_systra-lyon-1-1024x609.png)

![421-422_taut2311_systra-lyon](https://www.systra.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/11/421-422_taut2311_systra-lyon.jpg)

![lyon-tram](https://www.systra.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/11/lyon-tram-1024x682.jpeg)

### Trackbed Revolution

A key illustration of SYSTRA’s commitment to sustainability lies in the trackbed
design of the T10 tram line. Using CarbonTracker, the team opted for a grass
track platform, an instant carbon-saving solution that also enhances water
drainage—an essential consideration for a city susceptible to heavy storms.

SYSTRA embraced a holistic approach by advocating for the localized use of
construction materials, minimizing the environmental impact of transportation.
The incorporation of strategically placed trees along the tram route further
contributes to environmental preservation and enhances the overall urban
landscape.

### Eco-Friendly Development

SYSTRA’s commitment extends to the construction of T10’s depot, where every
detail, from material formation to insulation, aligns with eco-friendly
principles. This comprehensive approach ensures that the entire project is
harmoniously developed, preventing unintended environmental consequences.
The implementation of SYSTRA’s Sustainable Design & Construction Framework marks
a significant milestone in the realm of low-carbon tramway development. Results
include carbon emission reduction, improved water drainage, and the creation of
green spaces. As the framework becomes standard practice, SYSTRA is dedicated to
continuous improvement, contributing to the global effort to combat climate
change.In the face of the daunting challenges posed by ‘global boiling,’
SYSTRA’s sustainable tramway design in Lyon not only mitigates climate change
effects but also sets a pioneering standard for future urban transportation
projects worldwide. The company’s eco-conscious approach exemplifies
responsibility and forward-thinking in an era where environmental considerations
are paramount.

Some examples of projects in Cities & Urban Mobility

[  South Tyneside Council – South Shields Town Centre Redevelopment ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/south-tyneside-council-south-shields-town-centre-redevelopment/)
[  Active Travel Social Prescribing Feasibility Study – City of Doncaster Council ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/city-of-doncaster-council-active-travel-feasibility-study/)
[  Social Value of the Tyne & Wear Metro ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/social-value-of-the-tyne-wear-metro/)
[  Winchester Station Area Masterplan ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/winchester-station-area-masterplan/)
[  Connecting Cheltenham Connectivity & Modal Shift Strategy ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/connecting-cheltenham-connectivity-modal-shift-strategy/)
[  South Hampshire Local Economic Impact Model (LEIM) ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/south-hampshire-local-economic-impact-model-leim/)

[ See a selection of SYSTRA's projects ](https://www.systra.com/uk/project/south-hampshire-local-economic-impact-model-leim/)