Canadian National Railway (CN) is a leading North American transportation and logistics company headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1919, CN has established itself as a vital player in the rail industry, operating a vast network that spans Canada and parts of the United States.
The company primarily focuses on freight transportation, offering services in intermodal, bulk commodities, and automotive sectors. CN's unique integrated supply chain solutions and commitment to sustainability set it apart in the competitive landscape.
With a strong market position, CN has achieved numerous accolades, including recognition for operational efficiency and safety. As a cornerstone of the Canadian economy, Canadian National Railway continues to drive innovation and growth in the transportation sector.
+39 vs industry average
Canadian National Railway’s score of 60 is higher than 81% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Rail Transport is among the most carbon-intensive industries
Industry performance
The Rail Transport industry has reduced its overall emissions by 34% since 2019
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2027
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Canadian National Railway's reported carbon emissions
In 2024, Canadian National Railway (CNR) reported total carbon emissions of approximately 7.1 billion kg CO2e. This figure includes 4.8 billion kg CO2e from Scope 1 emissions, 70.9 million kg CO2e from Scope 2 emissions, and 2.2 billion kg CO2e from Scope 3 emissions. The company has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions per million gross ton miles (GTM) by 43% by 2030, using 2019 as the baseline year. Additionally, CNR is committed to reducing its Scope 3 emissions from fuel and energy-related activities by 40% per gross ton mile by 2030, and to achieving a 27.5% reduction in all other absolute Scope 3 emissions by the same year. CNR has also pledged to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050, which includes a significant target of reducing absolute Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 90% from 2019 levels. These targets have been validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and align with the goals of the Paris Agreement, reflecting CNR's commitment to sustainable operations and climate responsibility.
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Canadian National Railway’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
4 goals2030
43% reduction in Scope 1
CN has set a science-based target to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions per million GTMs by 43% by 2030, compared to a 2019 base year.
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
See all 4 climate goals
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
6 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Common questions about Canadian National Railway’s sustainability data and climate commitments
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