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10/4/2023
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service in California is now powered by a more sustainable fuel alternative.
The trains will now operate on renewable diesel, which is chemically similar to fossil diesel but made from renewable raw materials — such as used cooking oil — instead of crude oil, Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency officials said in a press release.
Compared to fossil diesel, renewable diesel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 63% throughout its lifecycle, providing a steep increase to the sustainability of rail travel in Southern California.
The switch to renewable diesel also offers the potential to reduce other harmful emissions, including fine particulates and nitrogen oxides leading to improved local air quality, LOSSAN officials said.
"The adoption of renewable diesel for our Pacific Surfliner service is an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental preservation and the fight against climate change," said LOSSAN Chair Jewel Edson.