What The Atlantic Got Wrong About The Railroads
I’ve been noticing some statements recently regarding the role that freight railroads play in terms of climate change. Some people outside of the rail industry have proposed that major rail companies are climate change deniers. They have suggested that rail is not the most environmentally friendly form of transportation, because yes, the rail industry supported the coal industry.
Did railroads support the coal industry in the past? Yes, they did. Why? Because the coal industry was a major customer for rail. Were some of the lobbyists they gave money to misrepresenting climate change? Yes. But does that mean that the rail industry itself is terrible for the climate? No.
Rail is by far the cleanest way to travel, especially when compared to automobiles and planes. Rail moves 40% of the world’s freight, but it is only responsible for 8% of the total carbon emissions that result from freight transportation. For anyone to propose that rail is not a environmentally friendly means of transport is preposterous.
When I first read an article by The Atlantic making this claim, I planned to ignore it. I changed my mind and decided that sharing it would be the right thing to do. By ignoring this misinformation, I would’ve allowed vulnerable people on the internet to fall prey to unfounded claims. Instead, as a rail professional, I feel it is my responsibility to clear up any misconceptions.
Rail is, in fact, the most environmentally-friendly way to travel. And it’s only getting better. Electric trains are gaining popularity as they emerge as a prominent form of transportation. These trains dont have to emit any carbon whatsoever as they can be powered by renewable energy. I am proud to work in an industry that works to make green transportation a reality.
A believer of investing in human capital with a strong sense of service, justice, and fairness.
5 年I hate to think of the environmental impact if the goods moved by rail were moved by OTR when railroads can move one ton of freight on a single gallon. Not to mention the impact on moving people.
Manager, Sales & Marketing at the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway Corp.
5 年I agree 100% with everything you said in your article. The Atlantic article that you are referring to, was it regarding railways in N. America or in Europe or Australia?? The photo at the header of this article is from overseas somewhere is why I ask.