published on 26/09/08
Evaluation of the current and future carbon efficiency of the European rail industry
It is now widely accepted that carbon emissions from human activities are a strong driver of climate change. If global emissions continue at the current rate, the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere will reach double pre-industrial levels by 2050.
It is generally recognised the railways are the most carbon efficient form of transport, even among independent bodies, but there is still plenty of scope for the rail industry to reduce its carbon footprint. The report suggests there is the potential for the UK rail industry to cut its carbon emissions by 46% by 2030.
With the UK power industry targeting to reduce its own carbon emissions by 30% over the next 20 years by switching away from fossil fuels, the simple fact that with nearly 40% of the network already electrified (and 60% of journeys by electric traction), the rail industry will see a 12% reduction in carbon emissions without the need for any additional investment.
In addition, there are three ‘quick wins’, relatively low cost, but each with a material reduction in emissions:
• During non-peak hours, train cars can be removed to run shorter trains, whilst still achieving enough capacity, thus reducing energy use and track wear. And enabling proactive maintenance where needed.
• Energy efficient driving can be achieved with electronic in-cab driver advice to minimise braking and maximise coasting, all maintained by skilled mechanical personnel.
• The energy use of stationary trains can be reduced with intelligent train control systems with ‘load shedding’, coupled with control centre software with full maintenance programmes.
In total, it is estimated these initiatives would cost only £271m, yet carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 23%, and the annual energy savings would be in the region of £68m.
Beyond the quick wins, there are other options for the rail industry to reduce its carbon footprint:
• Electrification is costly and causes disruption to existing services, however, it not only improves energy efficiency immediately, but also paves the way for future carbon reduction as the grid supply-mix continues to improve. Electric trains are also quieter, and generally more reliable with larger passenger capacity
• For stationary trains, energy use from lighting, heating and other services can be minimised with control centre intelligence. Since the control centre has macro level knowledge of the actions of each train, it can shut-down nonessential services more quickly than existing ‘load shedding’ systems.
Currently, emissions from trains are approximately one third of those from cars or planes. Cars are set to improve by 49% by 2030, and air by 27%. Whilst rail will remain ahead even in a ‘do nothing’ scenario, it cannot be seen to be inactive whilst other modes improve. If the rail industry wants to reap the benefits of increased passenger numbers from being “the most carbon friendly form of transport”, it must embrace carbon improvements and publicise the efforts it is making.


Read the full article at Mechanical Engineering News