UK Rail Carbon Accounting: RSSB’s Net Zero Strategy

RSSB launches the **Rail Carbon Accounting Framework** to unify carbon measurement. This boosts the UK **rail** sector’s journey to net-zero, improving data quality and strategic planning.

UK Rail Carbon Accounting: RSSB’s Net Zero Strategy
October 8, 2025 1:54 am
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Introduction

The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has launched the Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF) to standardize carbon measurement and reporting across the UK rail sector, supporting the industry’s path to net zero by 2050.

Main Content

Framework Development and Objectives

Developed in collaboration with the Government, the rail industry, and the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi), the RCAF introduces a consistent approach to calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the rail sector, from individual organizations to single journeys.

Addressing Reporting Challenges

Previously, the rail industry faced fragmented carbon reporting, which hindered reliable benchmarking and obscured total emissions. The RCAF addresses these issues by aligning with international standards like ISO 14064 and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, providing tailored guidance for passenger and freight operators, infrastructure managers, and rolling stock companies (ROSCOs).

Implementation and Benefits

The framework offers clear direction on setting reduction targets and establishes defined data flows to support RSSB’s Sustainable Insights Platform. The RCAF aims to align carbon reporting, providing clarity and supporting industry progress toward net zero carbon. The unified approach replaces fragmented calculation methodologies, supporting strategic planning and operational decision-making. This initiative is designed to save time and money, improve data quality, and enable smarter investment in sustainability.

Industry Challenges and Future Initiatives

The rail industry faces a significant challenge in affordably reducing emissions across its numerous activities. Beyond sustainability, RSSB is also exploring technologies shaping rail’s future, including a webinar on Artificial Intelligence.

Conclusion

The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has introduced the Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF) to standardize carbon measurement and reporting across the UK rail sector, supporting the industry’s path to net zero by 2050.

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Company Summary

Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB): The RSSB introduced the Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF), a tool to standardize carbon measurement and reporting across the UK rail sector.

Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi): The SBTi partnered with the RSSB to develop the Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF).

Technology

Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF): The Rail Carbon Accounting Framework (RCAF) is a tool to standardize carbon measurement and reporting across the UK rail sector. It is developed in partnership with the Government, the rail industry and the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi).

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