A special ‘Climate Train’ has begun to operate between the Netherlands and Scotland to mark the start of the COP26 climate conference.
The ‘Climate Train’ is being brought by a partnership between Avanti West Coast, Eurostar, NS, ProRail and Youth for Sustainable Travel.
Delegates from the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Germany travelled to the conference on the ‘Climate Train’.
The official delegations were joined by MEPs and NGOs such as Friends of the Earth and Oxfam on one of the more sustainable ways to travel from Europe to COP26.
Statistics from Eurostar show that a passenger’s carbon footprint from one flight from Amsterdam to London is the equivalent of seven Eurostar journeys.
Huge carbon savings can be made if fast, seamless rail connections between the UK and the continent are improved.
Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris spoke on how railway initiatives like the ‘Climate Train’ can help fight climate change.
Mr Heaton-Harris said: “Our railways are one of the most sustainable ways for people to travel.
“As we host the world at COP26, I’m proud that our railway is playing its part in the fight against climate change.
“We are committed to achieving a net zero rail network by 2050.
“Ensuring our railways continue to play a pivotal role in enabling greener, cleaner journeys for passengers.”
Youth activists joined politicians on the service to debate topics such as how to quicken the modal shift towards sustainable travel and how rail innovation can help this.
An Avanti West Coast Pendolino carrying the delegates from London to Glasgow was fully wrapped with a unique sustainability design.
Phil Whittingham, Avanti West Coast Managing Director spoke on how uniting operators across Europe will be key in the fight against Climate Change.
Mr Whittingham said: “Climate change is a serious threat to everyone on the planet.
“Avanti West Coast, like the wider rail industry, is committed to cleaner, greener transport for all.
“By uniting with operators across the continent, the Climate Train’s journey illustrates the ease of travelling between countries.
“Providing customers with a sustainable alternative.”
Further information on Avanti West Coast's 'Climate Train' and on the COP26 summit can be found on the Avanti West Coast website.
