INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Green Technology
Etihad Rail introduces CO 2 Emission Avoidance Certificates validated by EcoTransIT
Etihad Rail , the developer and operator of the UAE National Railway Network , has introduced the region ’ s first-ever CO 2
Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates , an initiative that highlights the environmental benefits of rail transport for its customers .
This significant milestone reinforces Etihad Rail ’ s role as a key contributor to the UAE ’ s climate change agenda , aligning with the nation ’ s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy through a transparent Environmental , Social , and Governance , ESG framework linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , SDGs . the positive environmental impact of their shift from road to rail . This initiative not only supports businesses ’ ESG objectives and commitments , but also presents an opportunity to showcase their leadership in environmental stewardship .
By adopting rail as a primary mode of transport , companies can align their operations with the Federal decree law 11 of 2024 on the Reduction of Climate Change Effects , ensuring compliance with national climate regulations while advancing their sustainability goals . These certificates projected to reduce CO 2 emissions from the UAE ’ s road transport sector by 21 % annually by 2050 , taking up to 300 trucks off the roads for every train journey and removing 8.2 million tonnes of CO 2 per year .
By leveraging its advanced railway network and fostering sustainable practices , Etihad Rail continues to drive meaningful progress toward a greener future for the UAE .
Since 2016 , Etihad Rail has successfully operated the Shah-Habshan-Ruwais route , transporting granulated sulphur for
The certificates , powered by EcoTransIT , a globally recognised tool for assessing the environmental impact of transport – quantify and validate the carbon savings businesses achieve by choosing rail over alternative transport modes , directly contributing to the UAE ’ s decarbonisation goals .
Using EcoTransIT ’ s accredited methodology , the certificates calculate CO2 Equivalents ,
CO 2
e by factoring in direct emissions from diesel and indirect emissions from biofuels , where applicable .
The process includes Well-to-Wheel , WTW analysis , covering the full lifecycle of fuel use , from extraction to combustion , ensuring an accurate measurement of the environmental impact of each tonne-kilometre transported . It also accounts for Cargo Weight and Distance using shipment-specific data and geocoordinates . For comparison , rail freight emissions are calculated in comparison to truck emissions , providing a clear basis to highlight rail ' s environmental advantages .
By launching these certificates , Etihad Rail is empowering its customers by providing credible and tangible data that reflects allow customers to enhance their corporate sustainability reports , improve ESG Ratings , attract environmentally conscious stakeholders , and strengthen their leadership in environmental stewardship .
Looking ahead , Etihad Rail aims to transport 60 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030 , contributing to the UAE ’ s economic diversification , enhancing supply chain resilience , and contributing to its climate targets . By shifting freight transport from road to rail , Etihad Rail ’ s operations are export , and establishing rail as a safe and sustainable mode of transport with a proven track record .
In 2023 , construction on the network expansion was completed , marking the inauguration of the UAE National Railway Network , now spanning a length of 900 km from Ghuwaifat to Fujairah , as well as the launch of full freight operations . Etihad Rail continues to develop its passenger services , which will be operated along the same network in the future . p
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