G8 leaders want global aviation emissions cut in half

Leaders at the G8 summit called for a coordinated approach by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to guide aviation’s contribution to to reduce global emissions by 50% before 2050.

The commercial aviation industry has agreed to three sequential targets: 1.5 per cent average annual improvement in fuel efficiency between now and 2020; carbon-neutral growth by 2020 and a 50 percent absolute reduction in aviation emissions by 2050 compared with 2005.

The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) director general and chief executive, Giovanni Bisignani, welcomed the G8’s declaration. “The G8 Summit declaration is absolutely aligned with the aggressive targets that aviation has set.” Bisignani said. “Commercial aviation is the first global industry to commit to a carbon-neutral growth target by 2020. We have a solid track record of meeting our targets.”

So while standing-room only might soon be a reality on certain flights, let’s hope that airlines don’t make the stretch to include treadmills or stationary bicycles to help cut down on emissions…

[via Aircargo]