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Norfolk Southern Corp. recently joined the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a non-profit organization that promotes the benefits of “green” buildings. NS is USGBC's first Class I member, according to the railroad.

As part of its proposed Crescent Corridor domestic intermodal route, NS has committed to seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for buildings that will be part of three proposed intermodal terminals in Birmingham, Ala., Greencastle, Pa., and Memphis, Tenn. LEED certification is based on accumulated points in five areas: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

NS has been incorporating LEED standards into its building and planning designs, and implementing sustainable operations throughout its facilities, including the use of low-emission cranes and tractors, according to the railroad. The Class I also is experimenting with new methods to reduce truck idling and implementing practices to reduce electricity usage at all facilities.