Norfolk Southern and Port of Virginia Launch U.S. First RailGreen Corridor

The Port of Virginia has partnered with Norfolk Southern to introduce the nation’s first RailGreen Corridor, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at significantly reducing supply chain emissions for freight moving along the East Coast. This program connects the port directly to Norfolk Southern’s freight rail network, offering shippers an environmentally friendly shipping option.
Norfolk Southern operates daily services between the Virginia Inland Port in Front Royal and the Norfolk Harbor terminals, providing a vital intermodal link. The RailGreen program builds on Norfolk Southern’s existing sustainability efforts, including increased biofuel use, solar-powered rail yards, and hybrid locomotives. Notably, the Port of Virginia is the first on the East Coast to power all terminals with 100% clean energy, ensuring minimal emissions for cargo operations.
The initiative uses blockchain-backed Environmental Attribute Certificates from 123Carbon to verify and track each ton of reduced emissions, preventing double-counting and meeting international standards. Norfolk Southern’s locomotives utilize low-carbon biofuels, generating certificates that customers can purchase to offset their supply chain emissions. As demand for these certificates grows, Norfolk Southern plans to increase biofuel capacity further.
This RailGreen Corridor offers a scalable, sustainable shipping solution that supports the industry’s shift toward greener logistics and supply chain decarbonization.