The Carbon Footprint Model is a tool for the voluntary reporting of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG - Greenhouse gases). The UNI ISO 14064-1 standard provides for the application of criteria, recognised by the scientific community, that allow GHGs to be quantified and reported in a reliable and internationally shared way.
Aware of the decisive role that engineering can play in the implementation of concrete actions to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions, Italferr has developed a methodology for the measurement and reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in compliance with the ISO 14064 standard certified by a third party verification organisation, through which it is possible to determine the climate footprint of a railway infrastructure in order to have an effective operational tool that can direct the designer in perfecting design solutions.
The application of the Carbon Footprint Model to projects highlights the desirability of directing contractors, during the construction phase of the work, to adopt new, more sustainable methods and systems to support development based on a lower carbon economy, particularly in relation to the choice of construction materials and their transport to the construction site, with suppliers who formally declare the impacts of their product on the environment through internationally recognised methodologies (environmental labels in accordance with ISO 14020 standards).
The methodology has been applied on several projects and, consistent with the provisions of the UNI ISO 14064-1 standard, the results of the calculations performed have been formalized in "Summary Reports." This application has enabled Italferr to gain a competitive edge through the creation of innovative market spaces that guarantee new opportunities for growth by offering additional products and services that look out for the customer and for the community.
This is an important approach that characterises the leadership of the Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Group in sustainable development based on an ethical and fair economy and aims to activate a virtuous cycle, encouraging similar initiatives in other similar realities.