CORSIA, which has been endorsed by approximately 130 nations, mandates that airlines offset their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on international flights. This includes measures such as promoting the use of renewable energy and supporting reforestation initiatives.
The Department for Transport (DFT) has indicated that the consultation will include proposals for regulating carbon offsetting in aviation and potential penalties for non-compliance.
Aviation Minister Mike Kane affirmed the UK's leading role in global climate change mitigation efforts, emphasizing the critical role of carbon pricing mechanisms in decarbonizing the aviation sector.
The government's commitment to supporting the aviation industry through its Plan for Change ensures a cost-effective transition to a sustainable future. Minister Kane concluded by soliciting feedback on airline engagement in these crucial initiatives.
The Department for Transport (DFT) outlined plans for CORSIA implementation while adhering to the UK's emissions trading scheme (ETS) commitments, established post-Brexit in 2021.
To avoid double taxation of UK-EU flights under both CORSIA and the UK ETS, proposed measures aim to mitigate undue airline burdens. This strategy also seeks to prevent unnecessary passenger fare increases, ensuring the UK's decarbonization goals do not negatively impact air travel reliance.
Airlines UK CEO Tim Alderslade highlighted the critical role of robust carbon offsetting mechanisms in sustaining passenger and cargo air services for future generations while simultaneously mitigating aviation's carbon footprint.
The European Commission's proposed directive, incorporating CORSIA offsetting requirements for flights, has prompted considerable apprehension from BT4Europe, specifically concerning the methodology for measuring business travel emissions. The UK government's CORSIA implementation consultation concludes on February 10, 2025.