c2c Accelerates Net Zero Ambitions, Sets New Target of 2040

c2c, the operator of passenger services between Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness, has announced a significant advancement in its environmental targets. The company has brought forward its net-zero goal by ten years, aiming to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by fiscal year 2040.

This ambitious revision comes after c2c's initial science-based targets for net zero by 2050 were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in May 2024. The news follows a comprehensive review with c2c’s parent company, Trenitalia with the discussions aiming to align c2c’s sustainability targets with Trenitalia’s wider goals. C2c has now solidified its commitment to a more aggressive timeline.

"We've been actively reviewing our decarbonization strategy and decided to accelerate our original net zero target," said Stuart Browning, c2c's Director of Safety, Sustainability & Compliance. "By aligning with our parent company's plans, we're setting a new deadline of 2040. This reinforces our dedication to minimizing our environmental impact while continuing to serve East London and South Essex with a safe, sustainable, and efficient railway system."

Alongside this news, c2c has also committed to reaching net zero Greenhouse Gases across its business.

The operator has been investing heavily in its sustainability targets. It set up a Safety, Sustainability and Compliance division in October 2023, with former Govia Thameslink operational director Stuart Browning heading up the division. It also recently celebrated its Class 357 electric “Electrostar” fleet reaching 150 million service miles.