A call launched “to the whole world” for a “clean” aviation sector from 2050
It’s a short text, more a letter of intent than a documented document on the steps to take to get there. Gathered in Toulouse on the occasion of the aviation summit focused on the issue of decarbonization, representatives of EU countries called on “the whole world” to have a clean aviation sector by 2050.
In this joint declaration, all partners around the world are encouraged to “work together” on measures to achieve by 2050 an aviation sector that will no longer contribute to global warming. A call ahead of the 41st assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization which is due to meet next September.
The “net zero” principle
It recalls that many countries and international institutions, as well as groups bringing together airlines and aeronautics manufacturers, could already implement this “net zero” principle in the middle of the century. Whether it is the European Union, the United States or even Iata, the organization of some 300 airlines carrying out more than 80% of world traffic. But some big emitters like Russia and China have announced a deadline of 2060 to achieve this carbon neutrality.
It would notably involve improving aircraft technology, greater use of biofuels, carbon pricing or even financial incentives and support for environmental and climate innovation in the sector.
“Diversion and greenwashing operation”
If they say they take “into account the growing expectations of civil society in terms of decarbonizing transport, in particular aviation”, the signatories do not mention a limitation or a reduction in air traffic.
“While pushing for a ‘carbon neutral’ goal in 2050 looks good on paper, it’s actually a decoy that doesn’t involve much. Concretely, the aviation summit and its declaration ignore the essential solution to reduce emissions from the sector now and to a level consistent with the 1.5°C objective: the limitation of air traffic. By preferring to hide behind false solutions, such as the green plane or carbon offsetting, the political and economic “responsible” have made this summit yet another diversion and greenwashing operation”, reacted in a press release Sarah Fayolle, in charge of Transport campaign to Greenpeace France.