Reducing our impact on the environment
The RossRail Midlands Environmental Impact Reduction Strategy
In March 2002, RossRail Midlands launched their Environmental
Impact Reduction Strategy. Rail travel is the least polluting motorised
transport mode, but still impacts adversely on the natural and built environment.
We believe that investing now to reduce that impact will reap benefits in
a better future for us all. Stage 1 of the plan is in progress, and nearly
completed. Stage 2 is more comprehensive, and longer term in outlook.
Stage 1 involves the following initiatives
All diesel engines (diesel trains, buses and support vehicles) to
be Euro 3 compliant on emissions levels. Only our Sprinter trains do not meet
this target currently.
All diesel engines to be powered by renewable biodiesel. While biodiesel
emits pollution when burned, its CO2 content
produces no net emission as it is produced from plants which absorb carbon
dioxide from the atmosphere.
A rolling programme of electrification. Modern electric trains can
recover up to 30% of their energy during braking, meaning lower power requirements
overall. On urban Civis routes, electrification will aso allow regenerative
braking as well as reducing pollution in the city environment.
Recycling waste from trains and stations. All of our own products
for our Qeria buffet services now use fully recyclable packaging.
Installation of solar panels on station and operational buildings.
Solar power is capable of generating a surprising amount of energy, even
in the British climate.
Stage 2 is longer term in outlook and includes
Moving towards carbon neutrality. This will involve large amounts
of tree planting, and further work on electrification and recycling.
Promoting more sustainable living, through synerga:connected living,
which offers pleasant and practical low car and car free living environments.
It's a long journey, but in the end we will cement
our position as the most environmentally friendly form of transport, and
help you to feel good about choosing RossRail.
