A pioneering approach to rail project delivery by the South Rail Systems Alliance achieved a 42% reduction in carbon emissions during a two-week possession, bosses say.
The works at Stoke Gifford involved two plain-line track renewal blockades, totalling 1,418m of track, alongside overhead line adjustments and panning.
The alliance of Colas Rail UK, Aecom and Network Rail established a ‘green site’ by sourcing sustainable fuels, materials and facilities.
It used rail produced from scrap using an electric arc furnace and low carbon concrete sleepers. Battery-powered tools were used throughout the site
to further support the low-emission strategy.
The road-rail vehicles were fuelled using hydrotreated vegetable oil instead of diesel. Solar-powered welfare units were also used.
“Delivering this scheme successfully, on time and without incident while using sustainable materials and tools is a proof of concept that we can take a big step in our journey towards a net zero railway,” said Colas Rail UK project director Shaun Hodges.
“Engaging our trusted on-track plant supply chain, tools and material suppliers to join us on this trial and embrace these greener methods were crucial in helping us reduce our carbon emissions substantially.”