Nation's high-speed rail'a source of inspiration'

Faster, greener transport seen as part of climate solution push

As the world confronts the growing urgency of climate change, a centuries-old innovation is offering a distinctly modern solution.

High-speed rail, once praised mainly for its expediency and convenience, is now seen as a vital tool in reducing emissions. And leading that transformation, both in scale and ambition, is China.

Railway industry leaders have underscored that message this week at the 12th World Congress on High-Speed Rail in Beijing, a flagship event co-hosted by China State Railway Group and the International Union of Railways. The gathering, which runs through Friday, features technical forums, roundtable discussions and an international railway technology exhibition.