29. October 2025, 00:00 o'Clock
Article: In focus: What does an environmental protection coordinator at DB Cargo actually do?
Tobias Grabner at DB Cargo: with commitment and teamwork, he shapes environmental protection in rail freight transport.
Sustainability in rail freight transport is not a matter of course - it is the result of dedicated work behind the scenes. Tobias Grabner, central environmental protection coordinator at DB Cargo, ensures that ecological responsibility and operational reality go hand in hand. Whether legal requirements, technical innovations or internal processes - his job is to integrate environmental protection into everyday working life in a concrete and effective way. He sees himself not only as a coordinator, but also as a driving force for a sustainable future on the railway.
What does the everyday life of an environmental protection coordinator look like?
His day-to-day work is characterised by strategic thinking, teamwork and a constant focus on new legal requirements. "Our customers not only expect punctual deliveries, but also that we take responsibility for the environment. That's a real competitive advantage these days," he emphasises.Tobias develops measures to reduce emissions, conserve resources and ensure compliance with all environmental regulations. In doing so, he works closely with colleagues from various departments - from engineering to management. As a link between workshops, managers and authorities, he ensures that legal requirements such as the Water Resources Act, the Federal Soil Protection Act and the German Waste Management Act are not only complied with, but also integrated into everyday operations in a practical manner.A large part of his work also involves supporting approval procedures, preparing audits and checking on site whether standards and support are being met. Close dialogue with authorities, auditors and certification bodies is particularly important to him - because environmental protection is teamwork.
Tobias Grabner
Tobias Grabner - Environmental Protection Coordinator at DB Cargo
My job as an environmental protection officer at DB Cargo.
That's how I came to DB Cargo: I first came into contact with the DB Group's commitment to the environment during a student internship in environmental management at a freight airline. This gave me a multifaceted insight into environmental management. I joined DB Cargo back then in order to make even more of a difference in logistics. Today at DB Cargo I have the opportunity to combine both - for our company and for the environment.
I particularly like that: "I can initiate long-term changes and see how our work makes the company more sustainable. I'm particularly proud when colleagues and customers support our initiatives."
My tip: „A good network and open dialogue with colleagues are the be-all and end-all. And sometimes it also helps to simply exercise in the fresh air to get new ideas."
Flotation plant
Gas storage
Environmental protection - more than just checking specifications
Tobias also actively initiates projects that make the company more sustainable: These include measures to improve energy efficiency, reduce noise emissions or optimise recycling and disposal processes. The contribution to the circular economy plays a central role here. As a certified waste management company, DB Cargo supports functioning material cycles, which Tobias regularly reviews and develops further.Another focus is on sensitising employees. Whether waste separation, hazardous material storage or energy saving - Tobias provides information, advice and training. "If we manage to embed environmental awareness at all levels, we'll be on the right track," he says.What particularly motivates him? "I see how our projects have an impact. For example, when we reduce energy consumption through new processes, not only do we benefit, but the next generation does too." His tip for anyone interested in environmental protection: "Keep at it, be open to new ideas and never underestimate how much you can achieve with small steps."Environmental protection is not a peripheral issue at DB Cargo, but part of the corporate strategy - and Tobias makes sure it stays that way every day.
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