Govts endorse global strategy for aviation & climate change

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The International Air Transport Association ( IATA ) applauded the comprehensive strategy for aviation and climate change agreed at the Triennial Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), subject to confirmation by today's Plenary. At the same time, IATA expressed deep disappointment in Europe's failure to accept a global approach to emissions trading, based on mutual consent.

 

ICAO strategy reflects IATA's approach. "All 190 ICAO contracting states have re-affirmed ICAO's leadership on aviation and environment by endorsing a comprehensive strategy on climate change, and embraced IATA's 25% goal to improve fuel efficiency by 2020," said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA Director General and CEO. "We are encouraged by governments' support for IATA's four pillar approach as the way forward-invest in new technology; build and use efficient infrastructure; operate aircraft effectively; and once we have made solid progress on these three, we can look with governments at economic measures," said Bisignani.

 

Europe's go it alone approach on emissions trading is counterproductive. While European States agreed with IATA's four pillar strategy, they have reserved their support for the ICAO resolution requiring mutual consent for implementation of emissions trading schemes. "Europe's unilateral approach to emissions trading confuses taking leadership with taking cash. It is disappointing and irresponsible. Regional schemes will have, at best, limited impact on the environment. And their unilateral application to foreign airlines is a clear breach of the Chicago Convention. The resulting trade and legal battles will distract governments from making real progress," said Bisignani. 

 

Emissions trading alone is not the solution. "While the political focus has been on economic measures, let's be clear that emissions trading alone is not a solution for tackling climate change. CO₂ emissions are directly related to fuel consumption. With the fuel bill at 28% of airline operating costs, this industry is already the most highly incentivised to improve its environmental performance within the limits of technology," said Bisignani.

 

It's time for a Single European Sky. "While Europe rushes ahead with emissions trading, its track record on operational progress that could improve industry environmental performance is almost tragic. After 15 years of talks and no results on a Single European Sky, the potential 12 million tonnes of CO₂ savings remain like a pie in the sky-far from reality.  Cleaning up Europe's own backyard is an essential first step towards credible leadership on environmental issues. Fortunately, the industry isn't waiting for the politicians-European or otherwise. Airlines are moving forward and delivering real results on top of a good track record," said Bisignani.

 

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