Actions (E2-2)
We take various actions to reduce air pollutant emissions in our own business activities and along the value chain. Many of our most important actions in the area of climate protection and energy also contribute to the reduction of our air pollutant emissions. We also address energy efficiency and the diesel phase-out in relation to air pollution.
Reducing our energy consumption
The most important measure for reducing air pollutant emissions in our own business activities in Germany is to avoid energy consumption in the first place, for example by increasing our energy efficiency. One of the ways we achieve this is by continuously modernizing our vehicle fleet. More modern vehicles are not only more energy-efficient, but also typically emit fewer combustion-related exhaust gases. In the case of electrically powered vehicles, lower electricity consumption indirectly reduces air pollutant emissions along the upstream value chain. Feeding converted braking energy back into the overhead wire and energy-saving driving also contribute to greater energy efficiency. To this end, we train our drivers and equip vehicles with driver assistance systems. Further information on the “energy efficiency” measure can be found under Actions (E1-3).
Reduction of air pollution through diesel phase-out
As part of the diesel phase-out, we are focusing on the further electrification of the rail network in Germany. Electrified transport does not cause any direct combustion-related air pollutant emissions, and therefore contributes to improving local air quality. As diesel is phased out, alternative fuels (e.g. hydrogen) or drives (e.g. battery-electric trains or hydrogen trains), which also cause significantly lower or no local air pollutant emissions, are also being used on non-electrified or partially electrified lines. Further information on the diesel phase-out and the use of alternative fuels can be found under Actions (E1-3).
Low-emission construction vehicles and machinery
Since mid-2018, our contractors have only been using low-emission construction vehicles and machinery on inner-city construction sites in Germany in order to also improve local air quality there. The requirements for low-emission construction machinery are specified in our invitations to tender and must be implemented by the subcontractors used.
Value chain
By fulfilling its LkSG due diligence obligations, DB Group also addresses air pollutant emissions in the upstream value chain. By signing the Code of Conduct for Business Partners, our business partners commit to actively participate in monitoring compliance with the requirements set out therein and to ensure their implementation within their own supply chain. The Code of Conduct serves as a preventive measure to ensure compliance with statutory environmental standards and thus, among other things, to avoid or reduce harmful air pollution. In order to prevent potential violations, a whistleblower system is also available for reporting incidents, emergency situations or risks to people and the environment. This system can also be used to submit risks and violations relating to air-related issues, which helps to identify and address problems at an early stage. Further information on the whistleblower system and the complaints mechanism can be found under Process to remediate negative impacts and channels for value chain workers to raise concerns (S2-3).
If risks or violations of legal requirements occur, appropriate measures are taken to minimize the risk or to provide remedy. In 2025, this was not necessary because no corresponding violations became known. The aim is to ensure the systematic internal recording and transparent presentation of the measures that the Group companies have jointly agreed with their suppliers. The documentation of these measures by the Group companies subject to the LkSG using an IT tool has been launched. In future, this should make it possible to centrally track whether and which measures have been taken in the area of air pollution. Further information on the implementation of the LkSG can be found under Policies (S2-1).
Action plans 2026
The aforementioned actions will continue in 2026 as described.