Siscog

When code met cocktails… 🍸
What happens when a team of brilliant minds swaps algorithms for shakers in a gin-based cocktail masterclass? A blend of creativity, laughter, and a splash of friendly rivalry!
SISCOGuians stepped behind the bar to explore the art of mixology. Once the basics were mastered, the challenge was on: craft the ultimate cocktail in taste and presentation.
It was all about teamwork, fun, and bold ideas.
The results were as impressive as they were delicious.
Shaken, stirred, and full of team spirit! 🍸
A big thank you to Team Building for leading this amazing experience and making it truly unforgettable.
🎥 Watch the highlights and see which team mixed it best! https://youtu.be/2Id1fS0rG-I

SISCOG Cocktail Party SISCOGuians stepped behind the bar to explore the art of mixology. Once the basics were mastered, the challenge was on: craft the ultimate cocktail in taste ...

That’s a wrap on IO2025!

SISCOG was pleased to take part in this year’s APDIO event on Operational Research (OR), held in the beautiful Amarante. It was a great opportunity to share our work and connect with the OR community.

Our team contributed two talks to the scientific programme focused on key challenges in rail operations:
🔸 Efficient planning of rolling stock rotations, by Ana Carvalho
🔸 Smart scheduling of crew reserve duties, by Maria Barata de Tovar

👏 Well done to Ana and Maria for their presentations, and to the whole team for the valuable discussions and exchanges throughout the event.
🤩 Thank you APDIO for considering us an "OR Fan"!!

Events like IO2025 are not just about presenting solutions — they’re about learning from others, gaining new perspectives, and strengthening collaboration across the field.

We’re heading back with fresh ideas and renewed motivation to keep improving how rail operators plan and manage their resources.

♻️ Railways Driving the Circular Economy

Railways are helping shape a circular economy—transforming yesterday’s trains into sustainable and stylish new products. In 2024, Netherlands Railways (NS) upcycled more than 71 tonnes of retired train materials into items such as bags, jewellery, and homeware.

From everyday objects and merchandising to art pieces and even living spaces, old railway materials are being given new life. This is made possible through partnerships with businesses, designers, and even charities and non-profit organisations.
💡 Real-World Examples of Railway Upcycling 💡
🇺🇸 Amtrak | Transformed hundreds of Acela Express leather seat covers into designer bags and backpacks, keeping waste out of landfills and supporting social causes.
🇬🇧 Transport for London - London Underground | In 2023, designer Jeffrey Miller, during his Masters at Central Saint Martins, created the “From the Underground” art project - a collection of tiles made from the waste of the LU for the LU itself:
▪️ London clay (from tunnel excavations) formed the tile body
▪️ Iron oxide dust (from train wheel friction) was used as the pigment for the glaze
▪️Tile moulds came from H&E Smith, which refurbishes London Underground tiles
🇳🇱 Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) | A mix of creativity and material reuse resulted in a diverse portfolio of products, extending the useful life of once-discarded components. These are sold in Upcycle Shops at major stations and through auctions.

Railway Materials ➡️Upcycled Products

▪️Train seat upholstery ➡️ Sneakers, espadrilles, bags, pencil cases, laptop/tablet sleeves, toiletry bags, meditation cushions
▪️ Yellow information boards ➡️ Notebooks, trays, games, lamps
▪️ Train floors ➡️ Table tennis tables, speakers, chairs, phone booths
▪️Windows, benches, and steps ➡️ Tables, stools, swings
▪️Bike tyres ➡️ Bags, waist bags (f***y packs)
These are powerful reminders that circular thinking in transport isn’t just about recycling—it’s about reimagining materials, reducing waste, and creating lasting value.

📷 (C) NS; Jeffrey Stephen Miller; Tom Mannion; People for Urban Progress