Rail industry reports progress cutting emissions

Canada’s railways are continuing to cut greenhouse gas emissions while investing in low- and zero-emission technology, according to a new report from the Railway Association of Canada.

The 2023 Locomotive Emissions Monitoring report shows improvements since 2005, including a 28.8 per cent reduction in emissions intensity among Class 1 freight railways, and a 34.2 per cent improvement for intercity passenger rail. Absolute emissions from Class 1 freight fell 8.9 per cent, while criteria air contaminants such as sulphur dioxide dropped 99 per cent.

The report follows the renewal of a memorandum of understanding between Transport Canada and the association that sets a path toward net-zero emissions by 2050.

“Canada’s railways are proving that competitiveness and sustainability go hand in hand,” said Eric Harvey, president of the Railway Association of Canada. “By cutting emissions intensity, we are strengthening Canada’s trade advantage, keeping supply chains resilient and delivering growth with fewer emissions.”

Over the past decade, railways have invested more than $22.7 billion in Canadian networks, which the association says helps rail remain the most fuel-efficient way to move freight over land.

Visit here for the full report.