Rail company sets targets to combat climate change

Govia Thameslink Railway say the group has set science-based greenhouse gas reduction targets

A train company that operates services in south-east England has set targets to help mitigate the effects of climate change.

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which operates Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express and Great Northern, says the group has set science-based greenhouse gas reduction targets.

The goals have been validated by the corporate climate action organisation Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

GTR say fewer than 5,800 companies worldwide have this accreditation.

GTR's head of environment and sustainability, Jason Brooker, said: “This is our public commitment to push ahead with net-zero by 2050."

GTR say it already sources clean or renewable electricity for its electric trains, depots and offices

GTR has committed to reduce ‘scope 1 and 2’ greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2029.

These are emissions associated with fuel used directly and indirectly for things such as running a small fleet of diesel trains, company vehicles and generating electricity.

Luiz Amaral, chief executive officer of the SBTi, said: “The ambition of GTR’s targets is aligned with the need for the global economy to rapidly cut emissions."