The Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways Discussed the Environmental Responsibility of Railways at Baku Climate Action Week

The Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways, Rovshan Rustamov, participated in discussions held as part of Baku Climate Action Week today and spoke about the efforts of Azerbaijan Railways in combating climate change.

In his speech, Rovshan Rustamov highlighted that the railways aim to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2050, and to achieve this, the use of renewable energy sources, including solar panels, is being expanded. As a result, last year Azerbaijan Railways successfully reduced emissions by 9%.

He also emphasized that the next steps involve implementing energy efficiency and electrification technologies, which will help modernize the railway infrastructure.

Rovshan Rustamov added that this year, for the first time in its history, Azerbaijan Railways will publish a "Sustainability Report," which will detail how development efforts are aligned with global environmental goals, as well as the achievements in reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and protecting the environment. "Along with renewable energy, we are also investing in upgrading our infrastructure and trains. This includes the implementation of energy efficiency technologies, improvements in logistics, and the expansion of the electrification of our railway network. Electrification is particularly promising as it can reduce emissions and make our operations more efficient."

During his speech, the Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways noted the significant role of cooperation with the Asian Development Bank, the European Investment Bank, and other international organizations in reducing emissions and modernizing railways, which, in turn, makes international transport connections more environmentally friendly.

In this context, cargo transportation through the Middle Corridor, which connects Europe and Asia via Azerbaijan, reduces transit times and transportation costs by up to 40%, creating faster transit opportunities. Faster cargo operations over a shorter period promise to support a green and sustainable future.

Speaking about the Middle Corridor, Rovshan Rustamov also recalled that on September 20 of this year, the creation of the International Association for the Eurasian Transport Route was discussed with the participation of railway administrators from Austria, Turkey, China, and several Central Asian countries. The Association will promote sustainable and inclusive development along the Middle Corridor while adhering to commitments to protect the environment and communities in the regions it traverses.