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Union Pacific Railroad recently announced plans to continue implementing technology, changing operating practices and using new equipment to reduce diesel-engine emissions another 10 percent at the J.R. Davis Yard in Roseville, Calif., during the next three years. Since 2000, UP has reduced emissions at the yard 15 percent.

The Class I plans to analyze data from an air modeling study to identify major sources of emissions; use more systems designed to reduce locomotive idling; implement remote diagnostics to hasten locomotive testing and maintenance time; acquire and test "Tier II" locomotives featuring advanced emission controls; test and demonstrate Green Goat® hybrid locomotives; and make operational changes to minimize switch engine operation.

"The key to reducing emissions in rail yard operations is to identify the sources of emissions and make changes — through technology or operational modifications — to the functions that have the most impact on the environment," said Bob Grimaila, UP vice president of environmental and safety, in a prepared statement. "We’re taking a comprehensive approach to emissions reduction that we hope will be the model for the entire rail industry."

During the next six months, UP officials will evaluate each measure and recommend a timetable for reducing emissions at the yard by the end of 2007.