The aviation industry is facing a crisis that not only affects its internal
03-08-24
The aviation industry is facing a crisis that not only affects its internal operations, but also has significant implications for the environment. Recent difficulties have raised concerns about meeting global climate targets, especially due to the industry's inability to reduce its carbon emissions in the short term.
One of the critical factors behind the crisis is the disruption in the supply chain for more efficient aircraft. Air New Zealand, for example, has been forced to postpone its goal of reducing carbon emissions by 2030 due to delays in the delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A320neo aircraft. These models are known for their fuel efficiency and lower emissions, but the lack of availability prolongs the use of older, more polluting fleets.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which offers a significantly lower carbon footprint than conventional jet fuel, is seen as a promising solution. However, SAF production is not keeping pace with global demand. Currently, only a small fraction of the fuel used in aviation is SAF, and production capacity needs dramatic expansion before it can be a viable alternative on a large scale.
The industry's inability to rapidly adopt new technologies and sustainable fuels puts climate goals at risk. Aviation accounts for approximately 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, but its impact is greater due to high altitude emissions that contribute more to global warming. Delays in implementing technological improvements and adopting cleaner fuels could cause aviation emissions to increase significantly in the coming decades.
Despite current challenges, Air New Zealand and other airlines remain committed to long-term sustainability. The goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 remains in place, but will require concerted efforts and global collaboration. Airlines are looking to set new near-term targets that are more realistic and achievable, given the current obstacles.
Airlines are exploring several initiatives to improve their sustainability, such as replacing older aircraft with newer, more efficient models where possible, increasing investments in production and development of UAS, implementing technologies that reduce fuel consumption and in-flight emissions, and using advanced air traffic management systems to optimize routes and reduce flight time and fuel consumption.
The solution to these problems requires close collaboration between airlines, aircraft manufacturers, governments and international organizations. It is crucial that policies be implemented to encourage the production of UAS and that significant investments be made in research and development of new sustainable aviation technologies.
The crisis in the aviation industry presents considerable challenges to global sustainability efforts. Disruption in the aircraft supply chain and shortages of sustainable fuels are significant obstacles that must be urgently addressed. Global collaboration and investments in green technologies are essential for the aviation industry to meet its climate commitments and minimize its environmental impact in the future.
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