We’re putting sustainability on the rails

Climate-friendly freight transport: when sustainability gets on track

The most sustainable option is, of course, not transporting goods at all. Right after that comes rail freight transport. Two people who work every day to ensure that goods reach their destination efficiently, safely and in a climate-friendly way are Jennifer Herb and Michel Konermann, shunting attendants at DB Cargo in Wanne-Eickel. 

A demanding job between heavy loads, shifts and responsibility

Their workplace: the marshalling yard. Their task: getting trains weighing tons moving – precisely, reliably, in all weather conditions and in changing shifts. It’s a job that requires strength and brains. And one in which you have to be seen – both literally and figuratively.

Safety in the marshalling yard: visibility as a vital factor

They check brakes, inspect undercarriages, couple and uncouple freight wagons, and coordinate with the train drivers via radio. A single moment of carelessness can have serious consequences. Every movement has to be spot-on. The paths between the tracks are long, the ground is often slippery and the environment loud. You always have to keep an eye on everything – in front of you, beside you, above you, says Michel. Visibility is not just a safety factor – it is vital.

Hi-Vis Stretch: high-visibility gear that thinks and moves with you

That’s why Michel and Jennifer wear Hi-Vis Stretch, the new high-visibility workwear from BP®, which not only stands out but also adapts to their needs. Jennifer pulls up the zipper on her jacket and nestles her chin into the soft fleece collar. The clothing is easy to see in any light – even in the haze of an early-morning shift. What she values most, however, is the freedom of movement. The stretch fabric follows every motion – bending, climbing, turning – without pulling or restricting. The clothing is kind to me, like an extra colleague, she says with a laugh.

Robust, comfortable and weatherproof: a partner for every shift 

The fabric is durable yet comfortable to wear – and in wind, rain, frost or 30-degree heat in the shade, it remains a reliable partner. Back then, high-visibility clothing was stiff and heavy. Today we feel like humans in it, not like machines, says Michel as he ducks under a buffer to loosen a coupling. His grip is firm, his movement practiced.

Small ideas with big impact

I really like the little details! says Jennifer. She means the soft microfleece storm cuffs on the sleeves and the closable pockets that keep everything secure – even when she’s climbing. The big pocket on the leg for my gloves – someone really thought that through! Michel also appreciates many features, such as the soft fabric and the ventilation openings on the knee-pad pockets. 

From soot to reflective stripes: how visibility became a priority

Back in the 1980s, everyone here still wore black work suits, says site manager André Wiechert. That tradition comes from working on steam locomotives, from a time full of soot and coal. Since then, a lot has changed – visibility and safety are now top priorities.

Even though the railway system works like a huge set of interconnected gears, nothing would run without people like Jennifer and Michel. And even if their work often remains unseen, with BP® they stay visible – sustainably.