Written by Georgia Konidari | Otaku wealth
According to Euromonitor International, rail transport is the fastest growing travel category in the world, increasing by 35.6% from 2023 to 2024.
In 2024, as the fight against climate change becomes more urgent, travelers and policymakers are turning to greener transportation options. With significantly reduced carbon emissions, railways are at the forefront of a revolution in the way we explore our planet. His 220-year-old transportation technology has become a beacon of hope in the pursuit of sustainability.
The renewed interest in rail riding comes from global efforts towards sustainable exploration.
Reduce your carbon footprint with a panoramic train journey
Trains offer a way to explore the world's breathtaking natural wonders with minimal impact on the environment, contrasting with the high carbon emissions of air and road travel.
By choosing trains, adventurers can join a movement that prioritizes the environment without sacrificing the thrill of discovery. Scenic train journeys around the world allow travelers to explore breathtaking landscapes and beautiful cities.
These classic train rides combine sustainability and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable eco-friendly experience. Passengers enjoy picturesque forests, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains while reducing stress on themselves and the planet.
Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona, USA
Tourists can experience the breathtaking majesty of the Grand Canyon in many ways, but riding the Grand Canyon Railway is one of the most sustainable ways. The railroad stretches approximately 105 miles from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The journey takes just over 2 hours one way.
The train passes through Northern Arizona's scenic landscapes: pine forests, high desert plains, and the spectacular red rock formations of the Grand Canyon. This picturesque park has long been the perfect setting for movies like “Transformers'' and “Thelma & Louise.'' Attentive passengers can catch a glimpse of elk, deer, and coyotes, depending on the season.
Visitors who choose the environmentally friendly Grand Canyon Railway help prevent approximately 50,000 cars from entering the park each year. The railway is also unique in that he recycles waste vegetable oil from the park's restaurants, which he uses to fuel two steam engines.
Nicknamed the “French Fry Express,” the locomotive uses approximately 1,200 gallons of vegetable oil for each round trip. Compared to conventional fuels such as ultra-low sulfur diesel, waste and emissions are significantly reduced.
The operator also uses captured rainwater and snowmelt water on its steam locomotives, conserving critical resources and reducing potable water consumption by more than 1.2 million gallons.
rocky mountaineer, canada
Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury rail company that operates four scenic routes. The most popular options are the first voyage west (Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise) and the journey into the clouds (Vancouver to Jasper). Depending on the route, the scenic ride can last one or two days.
No matter which route travelers choose, they'll be able to see breathtaking snow-capped mountains, dense forests, glacial lakes, rushing rivers, and wildlife such as eagles and bears. .
Highlights of this ride include Fraser Canyon, the Thompson River, Spiral Tunnel, and the mighty Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Mount Robson is featured prominently in the 2021 film The Alpinist, which captures Canadian mountaineer Marc-Andre Leclerc's challenging ascent of Emperor Face.
The company has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives to minimize its impact on the environment. We use reusable tableware on board to reduce waste. In 2019, we added 10 new GoldLeaf rail cars with energy-efficient features, including dishwashers that use 20% less water than their predecessors. The company partners with Trees Canada, and since 2008, he has facilitated the planting of more than 13,500 trees to commemorate each team member's work anniversary.
The company aims to divert 90% of its waste from landfills and achieve long-term carbon emissions reductions. Research into alternative fuel sources for trains is part of this environmental strategy and represents a progressive approach to sustainable rail travel.
Bernina Express, Switzerland/Italy
The Bernina Express traverses the stunning landscapes of Switzerland and Italy, two of Europe's most beautiful countries. This 126-mile journey begins in Chur, Switzerland and ends in Tirano, Italy, and takes approximately four hours to complete.
This trip will give you the chance to marvel at Switzerland's Engadine Alps, Italy's Valtellina Valley, pristine alpine lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Highlights include the Landwasser Viaduct, the Morteratsch Glacier, the Bernina Pass and the Brugio Circular Viaduct. The train journey also includes stops at scenic cities and locations such as St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Poschiavo.
The famous Bernina Express operator is committed to sustainability and the origins of energy procurement. Both the locomotives and facilities are powered by 100% hydroelectric power. We continually optimize the energy use of our trains and stations through a variety of measures, including outside air control to minimize CO2, the use of renewable energy for heating, and the introduction of modern recycling concepts.
Flåm Railway, Norway
For travelers looking for a short scenic ride, Norway's Flåm Railway begins in Flåm and ends in Myrdal. The 12.5 mile journey takes approximately 1 hour each way. The Flam Railway offers spectacular views of waterfalls, steep mountain slopes, deep valleys and lush greenery. One of the big highlights of the trip is the Kjosfossen waterfall that the train passes through.
The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) facilitates eco-friendly and hassle-free travel from Oslo to Flåm and Bergen. The Bergen Line connects Oslo to Bergen and the Flåm Railway at Myrdal and offers a beautiful journey through Norway.
Flåm is committed to sustainable tourism and encourages travelers to travel green. The town is home to two award-winning vessels for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nærøyfjord, one a hybrid boat and the other a fully electric boat. We are further promoting eco-friendly travel experiences.
The return of rail travel in 2024 marks a shift in the way we explore the world and reflects our commitment to protecting the environment. Through the lens of some of the most iconic and sustainable rail journeys, from the Grand Canyon Railway's green innovations to the Rocky Mountaineer's green initiatives, these rail journeys offer a path to a more sustainable future. , urges us all to rethink travel. The era of climate change.
Whether harnessing alternative energy sources or carrying out conservation efforts, these train adventures prove that exploration and preserving the world for future generations can go hand in hand.
This article was created by Media Decision and distributed by Wealth of Geeks.
