Abstract for: Unraveling the Complexities of Regulatory Compliance and Industry Behavior in Railroad Technology Adoption

The U.S. rail industry, crucial for freight transportation, faces challenges in adopting Tier 4 locomotive technologies due to long-standing practices and regulatory frameworks. Despite the EPA's Final Rule aiming to reduce diesel emissions, factors like the prolonged lifespan of locomotives, stockpiling of older technologies, and rebuilding practices impede the shift to cleaner, more efficient locomotives. This research employs a system dynamics approach using a causal-loop diagram to dissect the intricate feedback between regulatory compliance and industry behavior, focusing on stockpiling practices, regulatory anticipation effects, and their environmental and public health repercussions. Preliminary findings underscore the extended use of older locomotives, exacerbating pollution and health risks, particularly near rail lines. Future work aims to refine the model to explore policy interventions, fostering a transition to environmentally sustainable rail technologies. This study contributes to understanding the interplay between policy and technological adoption, guiding stakeholders toward informed decisions to enhance the rail industry's environmental footprint.