Net zero carbon rail

Supporting a net zero economy

Rail is one of the most carbon efficient means of transport, but there is still significant room for improvement. Decarbonising involves reducing, and ultimately eliminating carbon dioxide emissions.

Decarbonising rail and increasing its use – both passenger and freight – will be a big step towards fulfilling the UK’s commitment to net zero. Together with industry we are co-creating the Sustainable Rail Blueprint to lead the industry in achieving this goal and ensure the railways continue to be one of the lowest carbon transport options for passengers and freight.

Here we provide information to help you manage and monitor carbon emissions and ensure efforts are targeted effectively.

Decarbonisation topics

Carbon reduction

Collected research and methods to target and reduce greenhouse gas reductions in energy, traction power, and infrastructure.

Your guide to carbon accounting

Methods for annual carbon accounting for rail organisations including passenger and freight operators, rolling stock companies, and infrastructure managers.

Carbon data collection and reporting

Quantifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a key step in tracking and reducing them. Learn about collecting and reporting GHG data in the value chain.

Sustainable Rail Blueprint

The Sustainable Rail Blueprint is the industry-wide strategy for sustainability. Learn what GB rail’s goals are for net zero carbon, as set out within the Blueprint.

Rail Carbon Tool

The Rail Carbon Tool is a web-based carbon reduction tool for organisations and companies to develop an understanding of their carbon footprint so they can go on and reduce it throughout their supply chains.

Sustainability tools and resources

Helping organisations measure and improve their environmental performance

The DECARB Programme

Learn about RSSB’s DECARB programme which covers three key areas. Traction, Infrastructure and Governance.

Transport Decarbonisation Plan

Learn about how the industry is committed to pursuing a net zero carbon railway and the steps being to achieve this.

Decarbonisation our final report to the Rail Minister

Britain is leading the world on setting clear targets to reduce carbon. This report includes an economic appraisal and a route map for delivery a low carbon railway.

Decarb Working Group

The Decarb Working Group leads, oversees and guides the industry in contributing to the government’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. The group will also define the strategic approach for the rail industry.