The UK Government has set out measures to prevent airlines from both paying for carbon offsetting under a new mandatory international scheme, and paying carbon pricing under the UK’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
The Government has this week published its response to the advisory body’s most recent annual progress report to Parliament on the delivery of net-zero by 2050 – the nation’s long-term, legally binding climate commitment.
Airport expansion
Nonetheless, the Government’s official response to the CCC’s report shows that it is not prepared to take all of its recommendations on board.
The CCC urged the government to halt all airport expansion projects until a UK-wide passenger capacity management framework is in place to assess the aviation sector’s climate impact. Its report stated: “There should be no net airport expansion unless the carbon intensity of aviation is outperforming the Government’s emissions reduction pathway and can accommodate the additional demand”.
The Government has stated that it “recognises a role for airport expansion where it provides economic growth and is compatible with our legally binding net-zero target and strict environmental standards”. No pause will be implemented.
Shortly after the election, the green economy by approving expansion plans for London City Airport that will increase passenger capacity by up to 40%.
Expansion plans are also in the works for airports including Bristol, Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton.
