Environmental measures

DB InfraGO again implemented and continued various environmental protection measures in 2025:

• Noise remediation: The voluntary nationwide noise remediation program on existing Federal railway lines and the measures based on the respective feasibility studies in the Middle Rhine Valley, Elbe Valley and Inn Valley continued in 2025. For further information, see the unaudited sustainability statement in the chapter on Affected communities (ESRS S3).
• Heat transition: We are continuing to work intensively on a more climate-friendly refitting of all locations that are currently heated with fossil fuels and that will probably still be needed after 2040, such as workshops, company buildings or network locations. In 2025, two projects were carried out at passenger stations to replace fossil- fuel-based heating systems with renewable heat sources. In addition, measures for renewable heat generation are currently in the planning phase at 38 other locations.
• Photovoltaic systems on platform roofs: Since January 2024, photovoltaic systems have generally been installed on new and replacement platform roofs, provided that they are economically and technically feasible. The integration of photovoltaic modules will expand on-site renewable energy generation at passenger stations and improve the greenhouse gas footprint of rail operations. In 2025, a guide was developed to support the implementation of measures in accordance with Section 11a of the German Railways Act (AEG) (use of railway facilities for the generation of renewable energies) in construction projects. Currently, 24 platform roofs with photovoltaic systems are in the planning stages and more will be added gradually.
• Life cycle assessment of station construction standards: In 2025, a life cycle assessment was conducted for all standardized station facilities in accordance with DIN EN ISO 14040 and 14044 and the key material flows and emissions drivers were identified. This made it possible to determine reliable comparative values for all relevant asset classes – from train platforms and roofs to passenger elevators – and to systematically assess the greenhouse gas reduction potential. A greenhouse gas projection for the project planning phase was developed based on these findings.
• Pilot testing and approval of low-emissions building materials: As part of a pilot project, DB InfraGO has been testing nine emissions-reduced floor covering systems – known as “eco-concretes” – on the station forecourt at Berlin Südkreuz since April 2025. The goal is to evaluate the mechanical, chemical and optical properties of the materials under real-world conditions and to validate their potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Depending on the product design, emissions during manufacturing can be reduced by up to 60 %. Two types of flooring for platform construction have been approved for use in construction projects since 2024 and have received DB user approvals.
• Railmap for climate-neutral rail infrastructure: As part of the railmap for climate-friendly rail infrastructure, we are taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated during the construction and maintenance of the rail infrastructure. This includes coordinating with the BMV and the EBA regarding funding opportunities for low-emissions building materials, as well as maintaining close communication with the raw materials industry. In 2025, a grant award notification was reached with the BMV and the EBA for a pilot project to construct a rail overpass using emissions-reduced concrete. The project was put out to tender and awarded in the fall of 2025. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026. Similarly, a project-specific funding commitment was secured for another pilot project in negotiations with the BMV. The plan is to take the first regulatory steps as part of the Kassel Curve new construction line to incorporate various emissions-reduced concretes into DB Group’s regulations. Funding for the scientific monitoring and the necessary internal approvals and permits in each individual case is provided from the Federal budget allocated to the Kassel Curve project under the respective Requirement Plan Implementation Agreement. Construction of the retaining wall using emissions-reduced concretes is scheduled to begin in 2026.
• Sustainable station buildings: The “Little green station” program represents a new generation of station buildings that are constructed and operated in a more climate-friendly manner.
  • A particularly climate-friendly station building was completed in Bitterfeld in the spring of 2025. With the recycled aluminum used in its construction, a photovoltaic system that covers 100 % of its electricity needs, a green roof and a district heating supply, the station building is one of the most sustainable concourse buildings in DB Group.
  • The “Little green station” program is being further developed. Five additional locations are currently in the planning phase. The first two pilot projects in Zorneding and Haar were honored in September 2025 with the Brunell Award for outstanding design in the railway sector.