Amtrak released its FY20 Sustainability report on Monday, showcasing its sustainability projects across its operations.
The report included details on Amtrak’s progress toward annual and long-term sustainability goals.
“By investing in innovative equipment and new technologies, protecting vital rail infrastructure from climate change, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and expanding access to new communities, we can work together to create a future where intercity rail is operated on clean energy,” said Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn. “Investment decisions made today position us to achieve these goals. These visions and our strong sustainability story continue to evolve and grow every year.”
While the company saw record ridership at the beginning of the 2020 fiscal year, ridership dropped significantly because of the pandemic, the company said. Amtrak continued to provide service to customers who relied on it for transportation, however.
The company used the slow down to plan for its future, the report said, developing its first solar power purchase agreement contract, developing tools to incorporate climate risks into capital planning, and initiating climate roundtables throughout the organization.
The report highlighted several initiatives, including Moynihan Train Hall, where the design team for the project is pursuing LEED Transit certification for its sustainable design and construction; Climate Resilience Planning outlining a vision for a comprehensive strategic plan to understand current business vulnerabilities and develop near term adjustments to business practices and long-term adaptations to ensure the viability of safe, reliable transportation; and partnering with Food Finders to ensure that perishable food items intended to feed spring break travelers did not go to waste as COVID-19 reduced the traveling population.