By devising a system where a significant proportion of long-distance delivery is carried out on the rail network rather than by road, intermodal transportation significantly reduces environmental factors such as road noise and air pollution as well as decreasing the volume of traffic on already overcrowded road networks.

Furthermore, by simplifying the conversion process from rail to road transport at railheads and freight depots for the final short journey delivery to the end-customer, the need to build and maintain storage and distribution depots near to major projects is significantly reduced.
m Environmental benefits: reduced road noise; public acceptability; reduced air pollution; decreased traffic volumes; reduction in need for storage and distribution depots; increased road safety.
The use of the intermodal technology has significant medium- and long-term commercial benefits across a number of industry areas. It uses the existing rail infrastructure, with no need for re-engineering of track or support structure. Capable of high-speed operation, the solution will have wide applicability to a range of supply chains with greater carrying capacity across the entire UK and European networks.
m Commercial benefits: existing rail infrastructure; lower fuel costs; high-speed operation; low depot capital and running costs; UK and European networks; greater efficiency; public acceptability; a simple solution.
The use of the Babcock's intermodal technology has significant medium- and long-term commercial benefits across a number of industry areas.
m Benefits to the community: reduction in road miles; reduction in road noise, air pollution and safety hazards; reduces on-site handling.

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Babcock BES is based in Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland. www.babcockbes.co,uk or www.piggybacktrial.com