The Government is inviting public feedback on a proposal for a global carbon offsetting scheme designed to reduce climate change caused by flying.
The proposal outlines how the UK will implement the UN’s global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
The scheme requires airlines to offset carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on international routes.
This will be achieved by supporting initiatives such as switching to renewable energy sources – for example, solar grid installations – and reforestation projects.
The consultation includes proposals for how the scheme will be regulated in the UK, including penalties for non-compliance.
It also includes proposals for how the UK will implement CORSIA while maintaining commitments under the separate UK emissions trading scheme (ETS).
To prevent flights from the UK to Europe from being subject to both CORSIA and ETS, the consultation suggests measures to ensure airlines are not ‘unfairly burdened’, according to the Department for Transport.
This approach also aims to avoid ‘unnecessary’ price increases for passengers, said the DfT.
Aviation Minister Mike Kane added: “The UK is already at the forefront of global efforts to address climate change and carbon pricing schemes play a vital role in decarbonising aviation.
“The government is committed to supporting the aviation industry and with our Plan for Change at the heart, we’re helping the UK transition to a cleaner future in the most cost-effective way. We welcome all views on how airlines can continue participating in these crucial initiatives.”
Aviation contributes around 3% of global emissions and the UK is one of 129 countries now participating in CORSIA, also helping other countries – including 11 African nations – to apply the scheme.
Airlines UK Chief Executive Tim Alderslade said: “UK airlines are committed to net zero, which alongside innovation to reduce our emissions directly also means effective international action in what is an inherently global sector.
“We welcome this latest progress and look forward to working with government to strengthen CORSIA and put the whole industry on a net zero path by 2050.
“Effective carbon mechanisms are critical in ensuring we can continue to deliver for passengers and cargo for generations to come whilst remaining on track to take the carbon out of travel.”
The public can respond to the public consultation here.
