Rugby Model Engineering Society (Rainsbrook Valley Railway) hits Net Carbon zero target

Almost everyone is concerned about the effects of Carbon Dioxide emissions on the environment and whilst all the UK’s steam locos only emit less than 0.03 % of the UK’s total emissions we must all still be seen to be doing our bit to reduce this figure.

In 2016, following the extension of both the raised and ground level tracks nearly 400 young trees were planted on the Rainsbrook site by RVR volunteers assisted by the local Girl Guides.  Most of these have survived and more are planned to be planted each year.

Our public and members days generate about 2600 kilograms of Carbon Dioxide each year which is now being offset more and more as these new trees mature and absorb larger amounts of CO2, currently around 3000 kilograms.

The increase in the use of battery powered locos especially on the raised track has helped with the reduction in CO2 output but principally we can thank the trees for a job well done.  In 20 or so years, as these trees mature, they should be absorbing up to twice as much CO2 as they are now.

It is believed that the RVR is now one of only a very small number of steam railways in the UK to be climate positive.