Chiltern Railways announced as winners at the National Rail Awards.

Chiltern Railways won the Sustainable Development Award at the National Rail Awards on September 19.

During the last 12 months Chiltern Railways has begun several large-scale initiatives, including the development of the UK’s first-ever clean air zone at a railway station and the introduction a coffee cup collection and recycling service at Marylebone.

The train service also replaced all standard lighting across its network to more energy-efficient LED’s as well as introducing recycling bins on to several trains.

The judges said: “We’re impressed with the holistic approach to sustainability.

“The strategy, range of initiatives, focus across all aspects of the business, and measurable results, make Chiltern a worthy winner.”

The National Rail Awards is now in its 20th year and aim to recognise excellence in Britain’s rail industry.

Eleni Jordan, Commercial Director of Chiltern Railways, said: “We are very proud to win this award which recognises Chiltern’s commitment to the environment and the communities which we serve.

“Chiltern is always striving to set a standard of excellence for the rail industry and we were excited to lead these innovative projects which have helped us to reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

“Over the next year we are working with partners on trials for battery hybrid trains which reduce emissions and help us be a better neighbour as well as answering the government’s challenge to reduce carbon emissions from the railways.”