Protect & Conserve Water

What we’ve done 

Northern has a well‑established Environmental Management System, certified to ISO 14001 for more than 15 years. This has given us a strong foundation to identify and control pollution risks.

Water leaks are a key challenge for Northern, as much of our railway infrastructure is over 100 years old. To effectively manage leaks, we have installed water meters and remote water-logging devices which detect leaks and notify management immediately. By adding sub meters to high-use activities, we have been able to identify process improvements and develop site specific plans to reduce water consumption.

How we handle, store, and use substances is critical to how we safeguard our environment, particularly at TrainCare Centres we maintain and refuel trains. Over the past few years, we have enhanced our maintenance regimes to make sure facilities involved in storage and handling are in good condition and fit for purpose. Additionally, we have improved colleague training and instruction and made us prepared for what to do if the worst ever does happen. 

What’s next

We are committed to reducing water usage by 1% per year, with a long term goal of a 10% reduction by 2030. We will continue to implement best available techniques to reduce ethe risk of pollution and minimise water consumption and where possible, research and support the development of new techniques that will safeguard our environment.