Digital solution drives million-dollar savings in waste management program for major Class I railroad
At a glance
GHD's innovative waste management solution helped a major Class I railroad operator transform their complex, multi-state operations into a streamlined, efficient program. Our digital platform delivered significant cost savings while ensuring environmental compliance across their network spanning multiple states west of the Mississippi.
The challenge
As one of America's largest railroad companies, the client required an effective reporting and analysis mechanism for waste generated across multiple divisions. Several ongoing projects operated simultaneously across a large geography, involving various stakeholders and business units. The complex regulatory environment, especially along the West Coast, demanded consistent reporting processes focused on federal, state and local regulations.
Without appropriate waste disposal management reporting in place, Union Pacific faced significant risks of misrepresenting their handling and management of hazardous waste. The company struggled with maintaining consistency across individual sites, while visibility into waste amounts, types and associated costs remained limited. Multiple tracking systems and information gaps made environmental compliance increasingly challenging.
Our response
GHD implemented a comprehensive digital solution centered on our proprietary Navigator™ platform. We developed customized disposal management and compliance services that included sophisticated waste data management, regulatory compliance monitoring and streamlined reporting.
Our team managed the entire process from reviewing waste request forms to determining proper federal and state classifications. We prepared and maintained hazardous waste contingency plans, provided monthly generator status notifications and identified trends in waste volumes and timetables. The program delivered regular compliance reporting following all state and federal requirements and deadlines.
After discovering inaccuracies in the client’s waste tracking program, GHD began managing waste programs across all divisions - site remediation, hazardous materials and operations. Through ongoing analysis and optimization, we identified opportunities for minimizing waste through recycling and reuse while maintaining strict regulatory compliance.
The impact
Our solution delivered immediate and substantial cost benefits. After identifying fee overpayments in California and across other operations, GHD recovered significant funds for our client. Through improved waste management efficiencies and enhanced environmental compliance support, the program generated nearly a million dollars in total cost savings.
Beyond financial benefits, the railroad operator gained a streamlined, standardized approach to waste management across all divisions. This success has led to expanded services, including sustainability audits at various rail yards to develop waste minimization roadmaps. The program continues to evolve, with GHD enhancing data analytics capabilities to drive further business improvements.