RAILWAYS, ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT

This paper addresses the question whether rail transport should be preferred over road based modes because of its superior environmental characteristics, presumed to exist because rail is more energy efficient than road modes and uses, or can use, less polluting forms of energy. We examine the considerations which determine the relative energy intensity of modes, the other cost and quality factors that determine the economic choice of mode, and the environmental consequences. Finally, we conclude with suggestions for the way in which the World Bank should approach the issue.

• Corporate Authors:

  World Bank

  1818 H Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20433
• Authors:
  • Gwilliam, K M
  • Shalizi, Z
  • Thompson, L S
• Publication Date: 1994-3

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Tables;
• Pagination: 13 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Economic factors; Environmental impacts; Mode choice; Railroad transportation; Recommendations; Sustainable development
• Identifier Terms: World Bank
• Uncontrolled Terms: Energy efficiency
• Subject Areas: Economics; Environment; Railroads; Research;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00736894
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: Report TWU 6, Discussion Paper
• Files: TRIS, ATRI
• Created Date: May 22 1997 12:00AM