The aviation sector is pledging to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 despite passenger growth of 70% in the period.
The UK Sustainable Aviation coalition, comprising leading airlines and airports, set out where cuts can be made in a ‘decarbonisation road-map’.
This details smarter flight operations, new aircraft and engine technology, modernising UK airspace, the use of sustainable aviation fuels, and high-quality “market-based policy measures”.
“With these actions, the UK will be able to grow passenger numbers by 70% – in line with current projections – whilst reducing net emissions from 30 million tonnes of CO2 per year today down to zero,” the group claimed.
A sustainable aviation fuels projection has also been released which identifies the specific role that sustainable aviation fuels could play in meeting the commitment.
The UK could become a world leader in developing sustainable aviation fuels, which could meet 32% of the nation’s demand for aviation fuel by 2050, it forecasts.
The sector is seeking government support in the following ways:
- By maintaining and enhancing support for aerospace research and development
- By supporting the commercial deployment of sustainable aviation fuels at scale
- By delivering critical airspace modernisation
- By working internationally to deliver “effective, global market-based policy measures” to address residual aviation emissions and to set a clear, long term CO2 target for global aviation.
Sustainable Aviation chairman Neil Robinson said: “Climate change is a clear and pressing issue for people, businesses and governments across the world.
“We know aviation emissions will increase if decisive action is not taken, and that’s why UK aviation today commits to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, through an international approach, working with governments around the world and through the UN.
“The UK is well positioned to become one of the leaders in the green technologies of the future, including sustainable aviation fuels and electric flight, creating highly-skilled and well-paid jobs in the process, and we look forward to working in partnership with ministers to help realise these opportunities.”
Transport secretary Grant Shapps added: “The fight against climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the modern world, but the aviation sector’s commitment today is a huge step forward in creating a greener future.
“Aviation has a crucial role to play in reducing carbon emissions, and with the help of new technologies, renewable fuels and our continued international co-operation through the UN agency, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, we’ll be able to strike that balance, creating a greener and cleaner future.”