The independent Carbon Trust Standard has calculated that the Channel tunnel transport system reduced its carbon footprint by 20.5% in 2009/10. Having previously reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 44% between 2006 and 2008, this makes a cumulative reduction of 55.5% in the past five years.
The latest reduction was achieved by three initiatives:
- the completion of the Channel Tunnel catenary supply project using low carbon electricity from France
- the transition from 30 to 32 wagon truck shuttles
- the introduction battery powered wagons to carry out night works in the tunnel in place of diesel locomotives.
Groupe Eurotunnel chairman and CEO Jacques Gounon said: “One of the founding values of Groupe Eurotunnel is respect for the environment: the Carbon Trust Standard certification is a benchmark in this area in recognition of not only our engagement but also our achievement; a further reduction of 20% in Eurotunnel’s carbon footprint, which follows a reduction of 44% that was certified in 2009, and which is unique to our business sector. Eurotunnel respects the planet by travelling below the sea and cares for the sea by travelling beneath the sea bed.”
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