Setting a new global benchmark in sustainable automotive logistics, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has announced that its Gujarat in-plant railway siding has been officially registered as the world’s first Modal Shift Transportation Project under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) programme administered by Verra.
The initiative is expected to generate approximately 1.7 lakh carbon credits over a 10-year crediting period, spanning FY2023-24 to FY2032-33. The credits will be earned by transitioning vehicle dispatch operations from road transport to rail logistics — a more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable mode of vehicle movement.
Emission reductions under the project have been quantified using the AM0090 methodology established under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Following independent validation and verification of emission savings, Verra will issue the certified carbon credits to Maruti Suzuki as part of its VCS programme.
The milestone reinforces the company’s focus on reducing logistics-related emissions while advancing sustainable transportation practices across its manufacturing and distribution ecosystem.
Speaking on the sustainability milestone, Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said “This is a proud moment for Maruti Suzuki as our Gujarat in-plant railway siding is recognized as the world’s first Verra-registered Modal Shift in Transportation project. By transitioning vehicle movement from road to rail, the project demonstrates how scale, operational efficiency and environmental responsibility can seamlessly go hand in hand. Leveraging the inherent efficiency of rail transport, the Gujarat in-plant railway siding has significantly reduced the carbon footprint of our logistics operations, while also easing road congestion and lowering overall fossil fuel consumption. We are honoured by the recognition from Verra. This milestone marks a significant step forward in our sustainability journey and reinforces our commitment to setting industry benchmarks that align with India’s strong steps towards net zero emissions.”
The project contributes to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focused on Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13).
