Aviation's contribution…
Scientific evidence is growing that man-made greenhouse gas emissions are having an effect on the earth’s climate. Aviation represents a small but growing contribution to the problem – it is estimated that air travel currently accounts for around 2% to 3% of global emissions, which could rise to between 5% and 15% by 2050. It is important therefore for the aviation sector to demonstrate that its impact on climate change is under control. Bristol International Airport is a signatory to the cross industry Sustainable Aviation Strategy (see www.sustainableaviation.co.uk) which sets out measures for aviation to minimise its impacts through technology and operational improvements, and meeting the external costs of its remaining emissions.
Bristol International's contribution…
The impact of flights from Bristol International Airport in 2005 equated to 0.06% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. So the reality is that airport’s impact is dwarfed by those from other sources. But this should not be used as an excuse for inaction. Action to address this issue needs to be focussed primarily at national and international level. Emissions trading is the most effective mechanism for achieving sustained reductions in global carbon dioxide emissions and an announcement regarding the inclusion of aviation in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme is expected around the end of 2006. The Sustainable Aviation Strategy also includes targets to improve the fuel efficiency of aircraft by 50% by 2020.
Bristol International's commitment…
So what can Bristol International Airport do to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and how can you help? In our recently published Master Plan we set out the following measures to tackle climate change:
Your commitment…
There is growing interest in the use of voluntary carbon offset schemes to address and raise awareness of climate change. Bristol International Airport has linked up with ClimateCare to offer passengers the opportunity to offset the greenhouse gas emissions of their flights through a payment to schemes that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by the same amount. These projects include renewable energy, energy efficiency and forest reforestation projects across the world.
Please use the carbon calculator above to calculate the emissions from your flight and the amount of money you should contribute. Bristol International Airport is pleased to support the carbon offset scheme run by climatecare.org and will be offsetting all our business travel in this way.