core sector communique

BNSF Reduces Customers’ CO2 Emissions by More Than 30 Million Metric Tons in 2011

FORT WORTH, March 13, 2012 – BNSF customers significantly reduced carbon dioxide emissions in 2011 shipping their freight by rail instead of their products moving entirely over the road. In 2011, customers avoided emitting more than 30 million metric tons of CO2 by using BNSF, which is equivalent to reducing the annual fuel consumption and resultant greenhouse gas emissions of more than six million passenger vehicles.  

For the fourth 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 highway.

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.

“We believe our chief contribution to sustainability is the major fuel efficiency and emissions reductions our customers achieve shipping with BNSF instead of solely over the road,” said John Lanigan, BNSF executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “Rail provides enormous value in reducing the country’s overall transportation emissions and carbon footprint.”

 BNSF moves each  ton of freight 500 miles, on average, on a single gallon of diesel fuel. That is at least four times more efficient than an all-highway option.

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,000 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain, industrial goods and low-sulfur coal that 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. And we are working continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve.