As the world’s logistics and transportation industry continues to grow, so do its emissions – largely due to the increase in the use of aircrafts. According to a report in 2018, aviation emissions accounted for 2.5% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, a figure which has grown by 87% since 1990. But just how much does aviation contribute to global warming? And what can be done to mitigate its impact?
From the available evidence, it is clear that the aviation sector is a significant contributor to climate change. Aircrafts emit large quantities of both CO2 and other less C02-intensive gases, such as nitrogen oxides and water vapour, into the atmosphere. The most commonly emitting aircrafts, such as commercial jets and helicopters, can release large amounts of particulate-matter particles (PM). These particles, while being small in quantity, are capable of trapping heat, leading to a warmer planet. Furthermore, due to their mass-scale involvement in flights and travel purpose, the aviation sector has the major capability of contributing to global warming more than other human activities.
As well as CO2, aircrafts also generate significant amounts of noise pollution, which has significant health implications for those living near airport runways and flightpaths. Excessive noise also disrupts various species of wildlife, which can have an adverse effect on global biodiversity rates. In fact, according to research, the noise pollution generated by aircrafts could be just as detrimental to the environment as their CO2 emissions.
There is much debate over how to reduce the sector’s emissions and global warming impact. The development of more fuel-efficient aircrafts is one potential solution, but this alone will not be enough. For example, most commercial jets use combustible engines, which emit CO2 and other in-flight emissions regardless of how efficient they are. Furthermore, though electric aircrafts are being developed, they are not widely available and are unable to fly as long distances as combustible engines currently allow.
Some suggest that a more effective solution would be to shift passengers away from flying and onto other, greener forms of travel. According to experts, rail and maritime transportation, for example, would produce at least a third fewer emissions than aircrafts. Despite this, the cost of travel and limited route services mean that such options often prove financially and logistically unviable for long-distance journeys.
It is essential that the aviation industry step up and face its responsibilities toward global warming. In order to reduce its overall impact, the industry should look to develop and implement greener solutions that would be effective and financially viable for consumers. Such solutions may include more taxation on aviation fuel, or carbon-emissions trading schemes that enable carriers to offset their emissions. Furthermore, airlines must introduce more stringent regulations and flight-limitations that can enable aircrafts to fly in an efficient manner, while continuing to consider the impact of noise pollution and other emissions.
The world’s consumers must also play their part. Airlines should encourage their customers to make informed decisions before flying, and opt for greener transportation when there is an alternative. Only then, together, can the aviation industry and society together act on and tackle the devastating effects of global warming.
