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Evaluating the low-carbon operation of high-speed rail and unveiling obstacles: A case study of Beijing-Shanghai HSR

Author

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  • Xue, Feng
  • Liang, Jielin
  • Zeng, Yu
  • Ma, Xiaochen

Abstract

Low-carbon operation (LCO) of high-speed rail (HSR) refers to a sustainable operational mode balancing HSR operations with socioeconomic development and environmental protection. It's a complex process influenced by multiple factors and their relationships, and the comprehensiveness of the evaluation method should be considered. This study developed an evaluation model based on the driving force–pressure–state–impact–response (DPSIR) framework to analyse the LCO of HSR and identify main obstacles using the obstacle diagnosis model. A case study of the Beijing–Shanghai (B-S) HSR validated the model. The findings indicated the following: (1) From 2012 to 2019, the LCO level of the B-S HSR increased by 10.6 % on average, developing from intermediate to good levels. (2) The main obstacle factors included proportion of HSR passenger traffic, the research and development (R&D) investment intensity, daily production carbon emissions, and traction carbon emissions (both total emissions and emissions per unit of turnover).

Suggested Citation

  • Xue, Feng & Liang, Jielin & Zeng, Yu & Ma, Xiaochen, 2025. "Evaluating the low-carbon operation of high-speed rail and unveiling obstacles: A case study of Beijing-Shanghai HSR," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 171(C), pages 916-932.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:trapol:v:171:y:2025:i:c:p:916-932
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.07.007
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