Different ways to reduce CO2 emissions in railway construction

Abstract: The transportation sector is the biggest greenhouse gas emission source and accounts for approximately 22% of the global carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. The ongoing global warming caused by CO2 emissions has led to increased efforts to reduce these emissions. Studies from many parts of the world have identified railway as the most environmental friendly transportation mode why there is a significant incentive to expand the infrastructure of railway. There is, however, limited research regarding emissions and energy-efficiency tools applicable in the construction of the railway system. Therefore this report investigates which opportunities exist for decision makers to influence and to take actions that will reduce CO2 emissions during construction of a railway system. Furthermore it suggests methods for how CO2 savings and the related economic benefits and costs can be estimated. A case study on the Austrian railway company Österreischiche Bundesbahn (ÖBB) is conducted in order to investigate how and to what extent these suggestions can be implemented. The results reveal that carbon accounting, applying wooden material over concrete and steel, and exporting excavated material on rail instead of road are all actions that can be taken to reduce emissions.