01515050

Component

Many agencies are seeking methods to account for their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in particular those associated with the construction of projects. The research summarized here provides a technique to assess the GHG emissions associated with the construction of commuter rail projects. The main focus is on the life-cycle emissions associated with materials, specifically, tracks, catenary, station platforms, parking facilities, and tunnels and bridges. Data on materials used and the dimensions are outlined based on available engineering guidance. Emissions factors for each component are derived from existing databases. A case study of five New Jersey Transit commuter rail lines is then analyzed to demonstrate the applicability of the technique. Results provide useful insights on what components of construction are associated with the largest fraction of GHG emissions. Catenary systems for electrified track tend to have large embodied life-cycle GHG emissions due to their copper content. Overall results are limited by a lack of information on station structures, construction equipment activity, and rolling stock.

This paper was sponsored by TRB committee ADC70(2) Climate Change.

01503729

14-0350

English

24p

2014

Transportation Research Board 93rd Annual Meeting

Digital/other

Figures; Maps; References; Tables

Catenaries (Railroads); Construction; Copper; Greenhouse gases; Life cycle analysis; Railroad bridges; Railroad commuter service; Railroad tracks; Railroad tunnels

New Jersey

Construction; Environment; Materials; Railroads; I15: Environment

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2014 Paper #14-0350

PRP, TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Jan 27 2014 2:12PM