By: VIA Rail, an Engineers Canada affinity partner
Passenger rail is among the most environmentally friendly transportation modes, helping reduce the sector’s climate impact. VIA Rail plays a vital role in Canada’s shift to a low-carbon economy, supporting national climate goals. In 2019, VIA Rail emitted around 146,000 tons of CO₂e, with 90 per cent stemming from diesel-powered train operations.
To address this, VIA Rail prioritizes reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in alignment with the Paris Agreement and Canada’s 2030 targets and 2050 net-zero commitment. Its Climate Action strategy focuses on cutting emissions and managing climate risks to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience.
Key strategies include:
- Upgrading GHG reduction targets to meet the 2050 net-zero goal.
- Enhancing fuel and energy efficiency across operations.
- Reviewing climate risks and implementing an adaptation plan.
By 2025, VIA Rail aims to:
- Cut GHG emissions by 30 per cent or more by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.
- Integrate climate risks into governance and decision-making.
Beyond emissions, VIA Rail’s environmental management strategy targets waste reduction, increased recycling, and circular economy practices. A zero-waste train on the Québec City–Windsor Corridor is planned by 2025, with recycling rates rising to 60 per cent and organic waste collection introduced at key facilities.
Employee engagement is central to VIA Rail’s sustainability efforts. By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and training staff on sustainability practices, the organization seeks to embed these values into daily operations.
Community engagement is another pillar of VIA Rail’s approach. Through active interest holder involvement and strategic investments, VIA Rail aims to align its actions with broader sustainability goals, benefiting both the environment and the communities it serves.
Environmental Management Goals:
- Reduce operational waste.
- Increase reuse, recycling, and organic waste collection.
Employee Mobilization:
- Build an inclusive, sustainability-focused culture.
Community Engagement:
- Strengthen interest holder relationships and invest in local communities.
VIA Rail also emphasizes responsible sourcing to minimize environmental and social impacts across its supply chain. A dedicated policy ensures sustainability is considered in procurement decisions, encouraging suppliers to adopt eco-conscious practices.
Responsible Sourcing:
- Implement a responsible sourcing policy and program.
To reinforce credibility, VIA Rail is committed to transparent sustainability reporting and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). These efforts reflect VIA Rail’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Credibility and Recognition:
- Enhance transparency through sustainability reporting.
- Support the UN SDGs.
Through these initiatives, VIA Rail continues to advance its sustainability journey, helping Canada meet its climate and social objectives while transforming the future of passenger rail. To learn more, please view VIA’s Sustainability plan https://corpo.viarail.ca/en/sustainability.
Engineers Canada is proud to partner with VIA Rail Canada to provide engineers and geoscientists with discounts on train travel. VIA Rail is shaping the future of mobility, alleviating congestion in cities, reducing transport emissions, and providing barrier-free accessible transportation.
Engineers and geoscientists are eligible for a 7.5 per cent discount on fares for the traveller and up to three guests. Learn more.
