On April 1, 2024, the Odakyu Group began operating all of its railway and bus lines using 100% renewable energy, significantly reducing its environmental impact. This initiative is a major step toward the group’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.
Accelerating Carbon Neutrality Across the Odakyu Group
The Odakyu Group, which operates the Odakyu Line, Hakone Tozan Railway, Enoden, and the Oyama Cable Car, among others, has transitioned to using electricity derived entirely from renewable energy sources for its operations. This transition has effectively reduced the CO2 emissions associated with its electricity usage to zero. The initiative forms part of the group’s broader “Odakyu Group Carbon Neutral 2050” strategy, aimed at achieving a decarbonized society.
This initiative was made possible by switching the power supply for the entire Odakyu Line, including the Romancecar, the Hakone Tozan Railway, the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, the Hakone Ropeway, Enoden, and the Oyama Cable Car to Tokyo Electric Power Energy Partner’s “Green Basic Plan,” which provides electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power.
Additionally, the Odakyu Group plans to introduce approximately 500 electric buses by the fiscal year 2030, which would constitute about 15% of its total bus fleet. This move will further reduce CO2 emissions in the bus sector.
In the area where the Odakyu Group’s Ebina headquarters is located, a resource circulation initiative has also begun. This initiative involves reusing food waste from the group’s commercial facilities as animal feed or biomass fuel. The electricity generated from this waste will be used at the Ebina headquarters, further reducing the group’s overall environmental impact.
This initiative is being supported by companies such as Japan Food Ecology Center Inc. and Sagamihara Biogas Power Co., Ltd., which convert waste into fuel, effectively contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions through energy recycling.
The Odakyu Group has previously promoted energy-saving measures in its vehicles and the use of public transportation as part of its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. With the introduction of renewable energy, the group has taken a significant step forward in its environmental initiatives. The group continues to strengthen its commitment to carbon neutrality and contribute to the decarbonization of society as a whole.
To symbolize its commitment to carbon neutrality, the Odakyu Group has also introduced a new emblem representing its efforts. This emblem will be displayed on Odakyu Line trains and facilities, promoting the use of public transportation among ethically-minded customers.
Moving forward, the Odakyu Group plans to continue its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions through its business activities, contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.
Click here for the press release.