Sustainability

 sustainable service being hauled by a class 66 locomotive

Sustainability at DB Cargo UK

We’re committed to helping the UK Government to achieve its climate target of net zero by 2050.

We're doing this because we want to, not because we have to

As the UK Government intensifies its focus on achieving net zero emissions by 2050, the rail freight industry plays a pivotal role in reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.

Our Sustainability Strategy outlines how we will align with national environmental frameworks, leverage emerging technologies, and enhance operational efficiency to meet critical sustainability targets.

Download DB Cargo UK's Sustainability Strategy 2025 - 2030 here.

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“Our sustainability journey did not begin with our new strategy; we have been laying the foundational tracks for several years, steadily building towards a more sustainable future."

Stacie Scullion, Sustainability Manager, DB Cargo UK

Welcome to Cricklewood, the first net zero rail site in the UK

At Cricklewood we’ve incorporated as much mitigation as we possibly can into our operations. To name a few, we have:

  • Constructed one of Europe’s largest green acoustic barriers to minimise the impact of noise and dust on nearby homes. The south facing, 18m high barrier is planted with approximately 3,520m2 of native green foliage. 
  • Switched from using white diesel to Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to fuel our on-site machinery and plant has reduced the site’s Scope 1 emissions by 98 tCO2e a year.
  • Installed new electric vehicle charging points for all staff and visitors.
  • Read the full press release here.

Cricklewood is now the jewel in our crown and will form the blueprint for the future development of our terminals across England, Scotland and Wales.

View live site data here.

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Get in touch with our expert.

Stacie Scullion

Sustainability Manager