In the award category Environmental Sustainability, VolkerRail demonstrated how it had reduced the CO2 emissions emitted by its on track machine fleet without compromising output. By reducing the revolutions per minute (RPM) by a small percentage an engine torque reduction of 2.65% was achieved. This in turn gave a 16% fuel saving and therefore a 16% reduction in CO2 emissions.

The Environmental Sustainability category was judged by environment professionals working on Britain's railway. Diane Booth, head of environment policy for Network Rail, commented: "This project appeared to be due to VolkerRail wanting to make a difference.

"It is an exemplar project; not only did VolkerRail demonstrate leadership by choosing to take this action, but the possibility of this intervention being replicated represents real opportunity to the industry. The judges therefore recommend that VolkerRail be highly commended."

Stuart Spriggs, HSQE director at VolkerRail, commented on the award: "We are delighted to be recognised for this work on reducing our CO2 emissions. We have a great deal of in-house expertise who have been working in collaboration with our suppliers to look at different ways of reducing our carbon footprint.

"We will be working closely with Network Rail NDS on this project, to demonstrate that close working relationships with clients and suppliers can provide real environmental solutions to the benefit of all stakeholders."

Now into the third year of the awards, Network Rail hosted the evening at the Natural History Museum, London, on the 13th July to recognise the contribution and support provided by the organisations that they have worked with to improve the rail network.

This Environmental Sustainability award is to reward organisations who have shown that environmental considerations play a huge role in their work on the railway.