Etihad Rail Introduces First Carbon Emission Avoidance And Reduction Certificates In The UAE

Etihad Rail has launched the UAE's first "CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates." This initiative showcases the environmental benefits of rail transport. It aligns with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategy, supporting climate change goals through a transparent ESG framework linked to UN SDGs. The certificates quantify carbon savings for businesses choosing rail over other transport modes.

The certificates use EcoTransIT, a tool that assesses transport's environmental impact. They calculate CO2 Equivalents (CO2e) by considering direct emissions from diesel and indirect emissions from biofuels. The Well-to-Wheel analysis covers the entire fuel lifecycle, ensuring accurate environmental impact measurement per tonne-kilometre transported.

Etihad Rail empowers customers with data reflecting their shift from road to rail. This supports ESG objectives and showcases leadership in environmental stewardship. By adopting rail, companies align with Federal decree law 11 of 2024 on 'Reduction of Climate Change Effects,' ensuring compliance with national climate regulations.

The certificates enhance corporate sustainability reports, improve ESG ratings, and attract environmentally conscious stakeholders. They strengthen leadership in environmental stewardship, offering a unique value proposition for businesses prioritising environmental responsibility.

Omar Alsebeyi, Executive Director of Commercial & Performance at Etihad Rail, stated, "At Etihad Rail, sustainability is not just a commitment—it is a cornerstone of our identity and operations." He emphasised their dedication to pioneering climate action and delivering tangible value to customers through this initiative.

Alsebeyi added that these certificates allow businesses to align operations with the UAE’s decarbonisation goals while demonstrating their commitment to sustainability. He noted that this initiative is becoming a key market differentiator, attracting customers focused on reducing their environmental impact.

Future Goals and Environmental Impact

Etihad Rail aims to transport 60 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030. This will contribute to economic diversification and enhance supply chain resilience in the UAE. By shifting freight from road to rail, they project a 21% annual reduction in CO2 emissions from road transport by 2050.

The railway network will remove up to 300 trucks per train journey and eliminate 8.2 million tonnes of CO2 yearly. Etihad Rail continues driving progress toward a greener future for the UAE through its advanced railway network and sustainable practices.

With inputs from WAM