Freight Rail Transport
Operation of freight transport by rail with zero direct tailpipe CO2 emissions or efficient dual-mode locomotives meeting stringent emission thresholds.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
The activity covers the purchase, financing, leasing, rental and operation of freight transport services on rail. Locomotives and freight wagons must have zero direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions when operated on electrified tracks. For dual-mode operations on non-electrified segments, the rolling stock must demonstrate that direct CO2 emissions do not exceed 50 gCO2 per tonne-kilometre when calculated using the actual payload capacity.
Rail freight transport inherently achieves significantly lower emissions per tonne-kilometre compared with road haulage. The operator must maintain records demonstrating load factors and emission intensity. Where the network permits, preference must be given to electrified routes, and the operator must show a trajectory towards increasing the share of zero-emission kilometres over the asset's operational life.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Adaptation
The activity must meet the adaptation criteria in Appendix A of the Climate Delegated Act. A robust CRVA must be performed covering the expected operational lifetime of the rolling stock and associated infrastructure. Physical climate hazards, including extreme heat affecting track integrity and flooding of freight yards, must be identified and mitigated through proportionate adaptation measures.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
A climate risk and vulnerability assessment must be conducted in line with Appendix A, identifying chronic and acute hazards. These include temperature-related risks (track buckling from extreme heat, frost heave), water-related risks (fluvial and pluvial flooding of rail corridors), wind-related hazards affecting overhead line equipment, and solid mass-related events (embankment instability, subsidence).
DNSH: Pollution Prevention and Control
Non-electric traction units must comply with Stage V emission limits under Regulation (EU) 2016/1628 or equivalent rail emission standards. Noise from freight operations must be managed through the use of composite brake blocks or disc brakes in line with the Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) on noise. Measures must be in place to prevent spillage of hazardous cargo and contamination of soil and water along the route.
DNSH: Biodiversity and Ecosystems
The operation must not lead to the degradation of Natura 2000 sites or other protected areas. Where rail corridors cross ecologically sensitive zones, wildlife crossings and fauna exclusion barriers must be maintained. An EIA under Directive 2011/92/EU must have been completed for any new infrastructure supporting the freight service. Habitat restoration obligations arising from the assessment must be fulfilled.