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France has been actively working on environmental developments in rail transport to reduce its carbon footprint, enhance sustainability, and contribute to broader environmental goals. To work on environmental developments in rail transport, France government plans to do investment to expand and strengthen its rail networks.
To achieve their environmental goal, France has been committed to make stations to become environmentally friendly hubs, integrating energy-efficient design, renewable energy and sustainable materials. For example, the Nîmes Pont-du-Gard station in France uses 8,000 square meters of solar panels to provide shading for the station parking lot. Some stations even have rooftop gardens, providing natural insulation and improving air quality. These eco-stations not only enhance the passenger experience but also help reduce the carbon footprint of train travel.
Nîmes Pont-du-Gard station in France
Electricify the rail transport
To do environmental development, France government was always committed in electrifying its railway network. By switching from diesel to electric trains, France aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They are continuing to upgrade existing infrastructure and invest in renewable energy to achieve their goals of electrifying the rail network.
In 2022, Alstom company and ENGIE company signed a cooperation agreement to provide the rail freight industry with solutions for decarbonizing mainline operations by replacing diesel locomotives with hydrogen-powered locomotives. The agreement that was signed by Alstom company and ENGIE company is ‘Alstom in Motion 2025 which aim to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen in the rail industry by developing innovative solutions that contribute to green heavy mobility operations such as rail freight.
Additionally, France plans to spend €100 billion on rail upgrades by 2040 to meet environmental targets and reduce its carbon footprint. The investment is a collaboration between France, national rail operator SNCF, the European Union and local governments.
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