ASLRRA GREEN SPARK AWARD

The ASLRRA Green Spark Award honors an outstanding short line railroad that demonstrates exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability and innovation. This award recognizes businesses that have integrated eco-friendly practices into their operations, products or services, proving that size is no barrier to impact. 

Please answer these questions to the best of your ability, including providing supporting detail and measurable outcomes as necessary.

Railroad projects do not need to meet every qualification on this form, but the strongest nominations will provide ample evidence and a robust narrative to demonstrate outstanding environmental efforts.

1. Energy Efficiency and Emissions Reduction Questions

a) What steps have you taken to reduce fuel consumption or switch to cleaner energy sources?

b) Have you implemented hybrid or electric locomotives, idle-reduction technologies, or route optimization? Please describe.

2. Waste Management and Pollution Control Questions

a) How do you manage hazardous materials, oil spills, or track runoff?

b) What recycling or waste minimization programs are in place?

3. Sustainable Infrastructure and Maintenance Questions

a) Have you adopted eco-friendly materials in track construction or facility upgrades? Please describe.

b) Are you using biodegradable lubricants, low-VOC paints, or green building practices? Please describe.

1. Improving Environmental Performance Questions

a) Highlight any innovations your railroad has introduced to improve environmental performance.

b) Describe new technologies, systems or processes developed or adopted.

c) Explain how your railroad leads or influences others in the industry toward sustainability.

1. Promoting Environmental Practices Questions

a) Explain how your business engages with the community or industry to promote environmental awareness.

b) Describe any participation in local clean-up efforts, educational outreach or partnerships with environmental organizations.

c) Describe any involvement in industry coalitions, conferences or regulatory advisory groups.

Please attach any relevant documents, including but not limited to photos of projects or equipment, sustainability reports or metrics, letters of support or testimonials and awards or recognition.