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10/4/2024
The International Union of Railways (UIC) awarded Norfolk Southern Railway a Sustainability Impact Award for the Class I’s achievements in climate change adaptation and resilience.
The UIC award ceremony took place on Sept. 25 at InnoTrans in Berlin, Germany. The award recognizes achievements in the global railway sector, highlighting best practices and innovative projects from railroads that have made rail more environmentally friendly, efficient and ethically responsible, according to a UIC press release.
NS achieved the honor for its sustainability efforts on the coast of Virginia at Lamberts Point. A critical marine terminal with railroad service, Lamberts Point faced flood risks as a result of significant and increasing rates of erosion at the nearby Elizabeth River shoreline.
To stabilize the area and protect against issues related to climate change, NS partnered with the Elizabeth River Project to develop a Living Shoreline. Created with 2,300 cubic yards of sand, 24,000 marsh plantings, 2,000 cubic yards of stone and 90 cubic yards of oysters, the living shoreline is a conservation effort that enhances biodiversity, improves water quality and reduces sedimentation, NS officials said in a press release.
Nutrient credits from phosphorus and nitrogen reductions in the Lower James and Elizabeth River watershed will offset restoration costs and provide a potential funding source for additional sustainability efforts or environmental stewardship projects, they said.