Rail travel is environmentally friendly: around 10% of all emissions in Switzerland can be avoided through a modal shift to rail. This corresponds to about 5 million tonnes of CO₂ per year. Through the Energy Strategy 2050, Switzerland is transforming its energy system and aims to be climate neutral by 2050. This requires a rapid, large-scale reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, in particular CO₂ and other harmful gases. 

With its climate strategy, SBB is taking yet another step forward. As a government-owned company, SBB aims to set an example for others to follow.

Measures for achieving the climate targets.

One of SBB’s most important goals is to contribute to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reduce its CO₂ emissions. To achieve this, the company will halve its operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to base year 2018 and then further reduce them by 92% by 2040. This strategy is in line with the scientific guidelines of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). To underscore its commitment, SBB has joined SBTi and its climate targets have been validated by SBTi. The residual emissions of 8% are set to zero with negative emissions, i.e. the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere.

The direct and indirect, energy-related greenhouse gas emissions of rail travel are low compared to other modes of transport. Relative to these operational emissions, the CO₂ footprint of procurement in particular is very large. SBB therefore also aims to reduce CO₂ emissions in its supply chain in accordance with scientific guidelines.

To meet these ambitious targets, SBB is saving energy, making a commitment to renewable energy, replacing industrial gases which are harmful to the climate and focusing on circular economy.