My Alerts Two STM projects distinguished themselves at the Prix Novae de l'Entreprise citoyenne gala. The STM’s approach to sustainable procurement was a finalist in the « Procurement » category while the STM’s project to develop a self-propelled, electric light rail motor tractor (locotractor) for tunnel work was also a runner-up in the “Ecoconception” category. The Prix Novae de l'Entreprise citoyenne prize rewards best practices in areas of sustainability and social responsibility in Québec.
Two STM projects distinguished themselves at the Prix Novae de l'Entreprise citoyenne gala. The STM’s approach to sustainable procurement was a finalist in the « Procurement » category while the STM’s project to develop a self-propelled, electric light rail motor tractor (locotractor) for tunnel work was also a runner-up in the “Ecoconception” category. The Prix Novae de l'Entreprise citoyenne prize rewards best practices in areas of sustainability and social responsibility in Québec.
An inspiring approach to sustainable procurement
Bolstered by the expertise it has developed over the years, the STM put its sustainable procurement plan into action in 2014 by creating a committee and issuing guidelines whose principles and measures apply to all of the company’s contract processes. Two handbooks were also developed to make the guidelines easier to apply : the Guide des principes et mesures de l’approvisionnement responsable (responsible procurement handbook) and the Guide des certifications (certifications handbook).
The STM’s approach shows promising results and is inspiring other organizations seeking to adopt responsible procurement practices. Due to the rigorous nature of its approach, the STM has been cited as a role model.
Electric light rail motor tractors : a premiere
Light rail motor tractors are used to move maintenance crews, tools and materials in the underground tunnels at night. They run on diesel fuel because power is cut off to ensure crews can work safely. As some locotractors had reached the end of their service life, STM wanted to replace them with fully electric rail vehicles that emit neither GHGs nor other pollutants, require less maintenance, have a longer service life, and provide a better work environment and conditions for those who use them. However, before moving forward, STM had to assess the project’s feasibility with both industry and partners such as the Centre national de transport avancé (CNTA), because while these vehicles comply with STM’s specific operating requirements, they are not yet available on the open market.
In this regard, the STM is a pioneer, as developing an electric light rail motor tractor for tunnel work powerful enough to perform as per STM’s intended use is, of itself, a first. Indeed, STM could help propel the development of such vehicles, and perhaps provide inspiration to other public transit authorities.
