Rail operator, Govia Thameslink Railway has seen its environment experts launch a roadmap to eradicate its carbon footprint, featuring an extreme focus on achieving carbon ‘net zero' for all energy requirements by 2050.
The rail operator currently has a very small carbon footprint as it uses over 97% electric trains for GTR services and provide the most sustainable public transport option for passengers.
The impressive trains are able to regenerate energy when braking which is supplied back to Network Rail and creates a clean power source to power the units.
GTR's Net Zero Strategy makes bold and inspiring steps to eliminate its footprint which can be achieved by:
- Working with Network Rail and the government to replace the few diesel trains used by GTR. Two options could achieve this measure including the possibility of electrifying the last two sections of Southern Rail track or using battery-powered units.
- Replacing gas with air or ground source heat pumps or equivalent in order to heat train depots
- The generation of energy from over 6,000 solar panels which are being installed on the rooftops of train depots in Bedford, London and Sussex. This is part of a partnership with not-for-profit Community Benefit Society Energy Garden
- Changing air conditioning systems to limit the damaging impact caused by potential loss of refrigerant into the atmosphere
- Replacing fossil fuel equipment with zero carbon systems when it needs replacing or before
- Continue to source certified renewable electricity for offices, depots and stations
- The installation of smart meters
“We're in the middle of a climate crisis and everyone has a job to do to minimise their carbon footprint.
“Our electric trains are already the most sustainable way to get around on public transport but as the UK's largest operator, we want our customers to know that we're committed to doing even more.
“This raft of initiatives will cut our carbon footprint still further in the short to medium term and in the long-term help eradicate it altogether.”
Jason Brooker, Head of Environment at Govia Thameslink Railway
If we were in the middle of a climate crisis then the likes of China, India to name but two, wouldn’t still be building many coal fired power stations, whatever this country does to reduce its footprint other countries increase their pollution and are basically laughing as they don’t have these carbon costs. For instance shutting a steel mill in Wales this production just gets shifted elsewhere. Govia says it uses green energy how much power comes from Drax power station which has been green washed as it is ships wood chip from America.