Environmentally friendly mobility
What is the most environmentally friendly way of transporting goods? This question is becoming more and more important in view of rising freight volumes and increasing environmental impact.

Rail is environmentally friendly
Thanks to low friction and wind resistance, rail transport is highly energy efficient. The majority of the electricity used for SBB Cargo operations in Switzerland comes from hydroelectric sources. This means CO2 emissions are considerably lower for rail transport than road transport.

SBB Cargo’s commitment to the climate and environment

• Calculation of the environmental impact of freight movements
  The online tool EcoTransIT can be used to precisely calculate the environmental effects of freight movements within Europe, using all modes of transport. Thanks to the tool, customers can calculate the most environmentally friendly way to ship their goods, and optimize their own energy balance.
• Low-noise wagons
  SBB Cargo is committed to reducing the noise produced by freight wagons. The company’s fleet of wagons is being retrofitted to reduce noise emissions. In addition, SBB Cargo now only purchases rolling stock with low-noise brakes. Additional noise barriers are also being erected along rail lines throughout Switzerland.
• Cleaner air, thanks to particle filters
  SBB Cargo is doing its bit to improve air quality. All newly purchased diesel locomotives are fitted with particle filters. The existing diesel locomotive fleet is being retrofitted with particle filters as part of a large overhaul and value retention scheme.
• Energy-saving travel
  As part of the SBB energy-saving initiative, all SBB Cargo train drivers in Switzerland are being trained on how best to reach destinations on time while applying the most energy-efficient driving technique. The main focus is on consistent use of the electrical regenerative braking system. Especially at high speeds, the aim is to use the train’s kinetic energy to feed electrical power from the train back into the power network, thus making a significant contribution to energy efficiency.
• Energy-saving measures for buildings and facilities
  In the area of real estate, SBB has agreed on voluntary targets for 150 large buildings with the Agency for Energy and the Economy (EnAW). SBB is aiming to save energy and contribute yet further to reducing CO2 emissions in large railway stations, repair shops and administrative buildings. SBB Cargo is playing an active role in this scheme.