The ASLRRA Environmental Award recognizes a Class II or III railroad that has designed and enacted the most innovative and successful environmental initiative in the small railroad industry. Entries should give particular focus to how the program helped to reduce the company’s environmental impact or contribute to meeting sustainability goals for the railroad and/or the Shipper.
Who is Eligible?
All ASLRRA member railroads are invited to submit nominations for this award. Eligibility and outcome are not affected by the size of a competing railroad’s project or operations. Railroads that have developed any of the following should consider entering:
- A sustainability plan or report
- An innovative method for reducing emissions from operations
- Implementing new methods, or projects for improving or reducing environmental impacts
- Participation in EPA SmartWay Program
How do I Enter?
Nominations can be submitted via online form. Click here to access a nomination form. Nominations are due Jan. 10, and submissions will be evaluated by a panel of judges, who will select the top entrants.
May a Railroad Submit More than One Entry?
Yes, a railroad may submit more than one entry for consideration. Each of a railroad’s initiatives is eligible for entry and will be judged separately.
What Factors are Used to Evaluate the Entries?
The following factors will be considered:
- Small Railroad Factor - use the unique characteristics of a short line or regional railroad to improve the environment while maintaining excellent safety culture, and servicing of customers.
- Connections to the Larger Transportation Network - work successfully with environmental authorities, Class I railroads or shippers to elevate environmental stewardship, showcasing the positive impact of the railroad’s environmental initiatives.
- Community Focus - be a positive voice, raising awareness of the positive environmental impact that rail has in the community. Educate community leaders on the benefits of rail, and the commitment the railroad has made to a sustainability plan, or other measurable initiatives for public good.
- Emissions Disclosure – active engagement in an emission disclosure program such as EPA SmartWay, CDP, or other reputable organization.
The prompts below offer additional ideas organizations may consider when preparing their nomination materials.
- Describe how the railroad has enhanced its environmental performance.
- Describe how the railroad’s leadership has enhanced the environmental performance of others in the transportation industry or the community.
- Describe example(s) of the railroad’s ability to identify climate related risk and implementation of sustainable solutions to reduce those risks.
- Describe any positive bottom-line results (for the railroad, supplier, or community) of actions taken by the railroad to reduce their environmental impact.
- Describe example(s) of off-duty activities railroad employees engage in to promote sustainability/environmental stewardship.
When will the Award be Presented?
The winner will receive their award during ASLRRA's Annual Convention.
