Norfolk Southern Railway, often referred to simply as Norfolk Southern, is a prominent North American transportation service provider headquartered in the United States. Established in 1827, the company has evolved into a key player in the railway industry, primarily operating across the Eastern United States.
Specialising in the transportation of a diverse range of goods, including coal, automotive products, and intermodal containers, Norfolk Southern is recognised for its extensive rail network and commitment to safety and efficiency. The company has achieved significant milestones, including the merger with Southern Railway in 1982, which solidified its market position.
With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Norfolk Southern continues to enhance its services, making it a leader in freight transportation. Its strategic initiatives and operational excellence have earned it a reputation as a reliable partner in the logistics sector.
+10 vs industry average
Norfolk Southern Railway’s score of 31 is higher than 53% 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 – 2026
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Norfolk Southern Railway's reported carbon emissions
Norfolk Southern Railway, headquartered in the US, has reported significant carbon emissions. In 2023, its total emissions were approximately 9.4 billion kg CO2e. This figure includes Scope 1 emissions totalling about 4.1 billion kg CO2e, Scope 2 emissions (market-based) of approximately 138 million kg CO2e, and Scope 3 emissions of about 2 billion kg CO2e. Earlier data shows Scope 1 emissions of approximately 3.8 billion kg CO2e in 2020, with Scope 2 emissions at around 193 million kg CO2e and Scope 3 at approximately 163 million kg CO2e for the same year. In 2019, Scope 1 and Scope 2 (location-based) emissions combined amounted to roughly 5 billion kg CO2e. Norfolk Southern's climate commitments and reduction targets are inherited from its parent company, Norfolk Southern Corporation. While specific reduction targets are not detailed in the provided data, the company does disclose emissions across Scope 1, 2, and 3 categories, indicating a level of transparency in its climate reporting. The company's reporting for 2017, 2018, and 2020 does not contain detailed emissions data.
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Norfolk Southern Railway’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
No climate goals have been disclosed for Norfolk Southern Railway yet.
Scope 3 top emissions categories
7 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives
Science Based Targets Initiative
Inherited from Norfolk Southern Corporation
Carbon Disclosure Project
Inherited from Norfolk Southern Corporation
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Norfolk Southern Railway
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