Rail Partners’ sustainability conference brings together industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges for the railway

Rail Partners held a sustainability conference yesterday with a focus on two key themes: cutting carbon and connecting communities. Hosted by Mark Gaynor, Director of Operator Services at Rail Partners, the conference provided an opportunity for industry experts to discuss how the railway can improve sustainability on the railway, further contributing to national sustainability objectives.  

During the conference, Shamit Gaiger OBE, MD, West Coast Partnership Development provided an insight into embedding sustainability and social value in HS2. Several train operating companies also spoke about their sustainability work. Rachel Turner, East Midlands Railway, discussed introducing new, more energy efficient trains; and Jase Brooker, Govia Thameslink Railway, explained how his company had partnered with a community climate action group to install solar panels at some of its depots.

In addition, Jools Townsend, Chief Executive of Community Rail Network, spoke about the opportunities for train operators to strengthen links with local communities and grow business.

Mark Gaynor, Director of Operator Services at Rail Partners, said: ‘Taking the train is one of the greenest ways for people and goods to move around the UK. But to maintain its green advantage the rail industry needs to continue to improve its sustainability.

‘Rail Partners’ sustainability conference enabled train operators to share experience and best practice in particular on initiatives that cut carbon and connect communities.’ 

Jase Brooker, Head of Environment and Sustainability at Govia Thameslink Railway, said: ‘Community owned energy on the railway is a new concept, but it has enormous potential. At GTR we’re looking at new ways to unlock this potential and harness the multiple benefits that come with it by working in collaboration with the rest of the industry and sharing best practice.’ 

Carolyn Watson, director of stakeholder and community engagement at Northern, said: ‘It’s very easy to view the role of train operators as transactional – responsible for getting people from A to B, but in reality, the truth is far deeper than that. Our trains connect people with education and employment opportunities, social and cultural events, their friends and family. Our stations act as community hubs, encompassing a growing list of products and services. And our colleagues are passionate community champions – working hard to get people where they want to be.

‘The rail industry has a vital role to play in the economic, social and cultural success of the North of England and Northern is committed to playing our part in making the region’s huge potential a reality.’

Read more about the event on the Rail Partners website: https://railpartners.co.uk/latest/events/sustainability-conference-cutting-carbon-and-connecting-communities