BNSF issues 2017 corporate responsibility, sustainability report

BNSF Railway Co. yesterday issued its latest corporate responsibility and sustainability report, which highlights the railroad’s progress in 2017 on implementing sustainable practices, engaging employees and connecting with communities.

The Class I used Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 Guidelines — a globally recognized reporting framework for environmental, social and governance performance — to relay its most vital sustainability-related issues, BNSF officials said in a press release. The Class I last year conducted a materiality assessment to help guide the development of the report, seeking feedback from numerous internal and external stakeholders on the most impactful areas associated with operating in a safe, responsible and sustainable manner.

The report states that in 2017, BNSF upgraded more than 460 locomotives with technologies designed to increase fuel efficiency. More than 60 percent of the railroad’s active road fleet now features an energy management system that can maximize fuel efficiency and train handling by optimizing throttle and brake use. About 98 percent of BNSF’s locomotives are equipped with automatic engine start/stop devices that can prevent unnecessary idling and help reduce air emissions.

The report also states that over the past decade, the Class I has decreased its greenhouse-gas intensity by about 3.5 percent, reflecting progress in energy and carbon reduction efforts.

“With a history that spans nearly 170 years, we are proud of the important role we play in moving freight across our nation,” said BNSF Vice President-Environmental John Lovenburg. “As we look to the future, BNSF will continue to partner with our customers and communities to become even more sustainable while remaining focused on operating safely and building a better tomorrow.”

The report is available via this link: www.bnsf.com/corporateresponsibility.