BNSF Customers Reduce CO2 Emissions by More Than 30 Million Metric Tons in 2013 Shipping by Rail
FORT WORTH, March 6, 2014 /3BL Media/ – BNSF Railway customers continue to make significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions by shipping their freight by rail instead of entirely over the road. In 2013, BNSF customers reduced their carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO2e) by more than 30 million metric tons. That is equivalent to eliminating the consumption and resultant emissions from more than three billion gallons of diesel fuel or six million passenger vehicles annually.
“Shipping by rail is the most fuel-and resource-efficient means for moving large volumes of freight long distances over land,” said Steve Bobb, BNSF executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “BNSF provides tremendous value in reducing our country’s overall transportation emissions.”
For the sixth year in a row, BNSF provided its intermodal, automotive, industrial products and agricultural products customers with customized letters that analyzed their total rail carbon footprint and savings compared to movements of those shipments exclusively over the road.
Calculations are based on commodity type and weight, and distance traveled by rail. The calculation also considers the different fuel efficiencies of trailer, container or carload shipments. The calculation methodology was developed in consultation with Clear Carbon Consulting.
BNSF moves a ton of freight nearly 500 miles on one gallon of diesel fuel, which is more than three times as far as trucks. This efficiency reduces carbon dioxide emissions by over two-thirds when compared to trucks on a ton mile basis. And, it means that rail, which carries more than 40 percent of our nation’s freight, only accounts for 2.3percent of all transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions according to Environmental Protection Agency data.
About BNSF
BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain and agricultural products, low-sulfur coal, and industrial goods such as petroleum, chemicals, housing materials, food and beverages. BNSF’s shipments help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. We work continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at www.BNSF.com .
# # #
