Calculate and reduce the CO2 emissions of your train journey
We don't have a magic wand, but we do have the next best thing!
When it comes to CO2 emissions, the best thing to do is to 'Avoid, Reduce, and Mitigate'. To find out how to reduce your footprint with a few tips, go to the bottom of this page! To mitigate your residual emissions, discover our carbon credits certified by Bureau Veritas:
NB: The values given here are estimates based on averages for informational purposes and not a precise measure of your actual emissions, which can depend on other factors. 1 carbon credit corresponds to the avoidance or capture of 1 tonne of CO2 equivalent.
How we calculate the carbon footprint of a train journey
First off, pat yourself on the back for taking the train instead of a car or plane. While they're not 100% pollutant free, they're certainly on the right track!
Next add in your start station and destination, including any stops along the way, to estimate the amount of fuel required.
If this is a frequent journey, like a commute, you can add that into the calculator to give you your footprint over a certain time, rather than just one day.
Next we factor in the train type to adjust the fuel usage estimate, based on how big the train is, how many people share the emissions and what it runs on.
Tips for reducing your train-related emissions
Do you really need to drive to the station? Hop on a bus or cycle instead - most stations have plenty of bike parking space.
Buying food and drink creates more plastic and waste - it's probably more expensive too! Make your own sandwich. Fill your own flask.
Trains are great for sitting back and watching the world go by. Put down your phone, save some energy and take it all in.
If you do need to get online, reduce the load on your mobile network by hooking your device up to the train's WiFi.
Do you research train operators before your trip? Travel on modern, more energy-efficient trains whenever you can.
Your roof rack, box or bike carrier increases your vehicle’s emissions, so only use them when you have to.
Mobile apps are great, but if you want to go a step further, download your ticket before you travel to avoid using your mobile network.
All those short journeys add up, especially if it's your daily commute. Can you sometimes walk or cycle instead?
Journeys with lots of connections are time-consuming and inefficient. Close to where you need to go? Hop off and walk the rest.
Trains are great for catching up with your pals! Spread the word about the benefits of train travel and get your friends on board.
Tempted to jump on a plane for that slightly longer journey? Try a sleeper train instead, get a good night's sleep and enjoy the adventure.
How to earn a clean conscience
How to earn a clean conscience
Got carbon footprint questions
We're here on the other end of the internet, happy to answer questions about calculating carbon footprints or our growing movement.
