Reduce your carbon footprint when you go by train
 | | Recent research shows that Rail continues to be one of the most carbon-friendly forms of transport which emits approximately half the carbon dioxide per passenger kilometre of cars and a quarter that of domestic air.
In the last year alone, rail has reduced its overall emissions per passenger kilometre by 5% after taking into account a small increase in the carbon intensity of UK electricity generation. This brings the total reduction by rail for the last ten years to 25% - nearly three times the rate of improvement achieved by the car. Looking ahead, rail can carry some additional passengers with negligible additional carbon impact.
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In the case of car travel, in the latest year average carbon emissions per passenger kilometre fell by 1.5%, making a 9% reduction over the last 10 years. On the same basis domestic air travel has increased in carbon intensity by 11% over the decade.
George Muir, Director General of ATOC said: “Rail is doing its bit to reduce its carbon footprint and doing so much more effectively than either car or aeroplane. Rail travel provides a greener alternative to car and plane and people are recognising this in increasing numbers.”
“Train operators are also taking active steps to increase their environmental advantage – initiatives such as regenerative braking and biofuel trials are improving rail’s advantage.”
To read the full report click here.