Train Chartering has published research showing that trains are almost always less damaging to the environment than planes and cars. A train uses up to 70% less energy and causes up to 85% less air pollution than a jet aircraft. Short 1 hour flights have the greatest environmental impact, and intercity trains are easiest on the environment for the equivalent journey.
“Although everyone knows that air travel is polluting, comparing the resulting emissions with those of a train is startling. How can any environment-aware organisation use aircraft for charters & groups travelling between cities that are linked by an efficient rail service? Government and indeed the rail industry should do more to promote train travel as a greener alternative to flying.”
“Business travel agents are increasingly offering their corporate clients the ability to select which flight to book based on carbon impact. This activity now needs to include comparisons with rail alternatives in order to present the whole picture.”
Simon Pielow, Train Chartering