The Locomotive Emissions Monitoring Program (LEM) data filing for 2024 has been completed in accordance with the terms of the 2023–2030 Memorandum of Understanding (referred hereafter as “the MOU”) signed on December 5, 2023, between the Railway Association of Canada (RAC) and Transport Canada (TC) concerning the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and criteria air contaminants (CACs) from locomotives operating in Canada. This is the second report prepared under the current MOU, though it is based on reporting for the LEM program governed by MOUs dating back to 1995.
Key Facts & Findings
In 2024, railways invested $4.5 billion into their Canadian networks. Canadian railways lowered their emissions through investments in fleet renewal, fuel saving technologies, operational efficiencies, and use of low carbon fuels. Notably, biofuel consumption increased by 56% in 2024, accounting for more than 8% of total rail sector fuel consumption and contributing to further emissions reductions.
The 2024 report showcases the rail industry’s progress in reducing emissions while investing in the advancement of zero-emission and low-emission technologies. These investments help ensure rail remains the most fuel-efficient way to move freight and people over land.
Since 2005:
- Regional & shortline freight railways’ GHG emissions intensity has improved by 25.4%.
- Class 1 freight railways’ GHG emissions intensity has improved by 32.1%, while absolute GHG emissions have fallen by 10.7%.
- Intercity passenger railways’ GHG emissions intensity has improved by 33.9%.
- Criteria air contaminant emissions have also decreased sharply, including nitrogen oxides (–47.9%), particulate matter (–62.2%), and sulphur dioxide (–98.9%).
In 2024, through continued investments in fleet modernization, 88.9% of the locomotive fleet met an emissions standard and 93.1% were equipped with an anti-idling device.
The 2024 LEM report is the second report released under the 2023-2030 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between RAC and Transport Canada, which was signed on December 5, 2023. This collaboration dates to 1995, when the first MOU was signed between railways and the federal government.
