Page 30 - European Energy Innovation - Summer 2016 publication
P. 30
30 Summer 2016 European Energy Innovation
AVIATION
ERA – in a greener scheme
By Simon McNamara (pictured) targets address aviation’s impact on (ERA) is at the forefront of enabling
the environment and, as an association these targets. ERA members take their
The aviation industry has with members representing the entire environmental responsibilities very
ambitious short-, medium- spectrum of the aviation sector, the seriously and, as their representative
and long-term targets that will European Regions Airline Association body, ERA plays a key role in expert
work towards greener skies forums such as the Council for
and a more sustainable future. These Environmentally Friendly Aviation
(CEFA) which have a shared vision of
more sustainable aviation. ERA chairs
CEFA which is made up of aviation-
related associations that coordinate
industry policy and promote activities
to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint,
improve air quality and minimise noise
pollution. ERA believes that aviation
environmental responsibility is not
just about complying with relevant
legislation but about investigating and
investing in ways to build a greener
future for everyone.
Aviation plays an essential role, both
socially and economically, in an
increasingly global world. It facilitates
business, connects cultures and
communities, promotes economic
development and drives trade and
tourism. Wherever possible, aviation
works to reduce its resultant impact
on the environment through the
best balance of social, economic,
operational and environmental policies.
Numerous initiatives are helping the
whole aviation industry work towards
greener skies.
Reduced fuel usage and the use of
alternative fuels are both key factors in
lowering emissions.
In 2008 the aviation industry agreed
to the world’s first set of sector-
specific climate change targets. The
industry is already delivering on the
first target — to continue to improve
fleet fuel efficiency by one and a half
per cent each year until 2020. From
2020, aviation will cap its net carbon
emissions while continuing to grow
to meet the needs of passengers and
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