Hot debate on curbing aircraft emissions

US and European negotiators are trying to come up with the world’s first carbon dioxide emissions standards for aircraft as part of the industry’s contribution to efforts to combat climate change. Differences remain on where to place the bar on efficiency, with the US and Canada pushing for more stringent targets than the European Union, while environmental groups have accused Europe of dragging its feet. 

“The CO2 standard will push industry to be as fuel-efficient as possible in all market conditions to reduce GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions and the impact of aviation on climate change,” stated the Canadian paper presented at ICAO last week. The proposals could revive pressure on European plane maker Airbus to upgrade the world’s largest passenger jet, the A380 super-jumbo, with new engines. The Montreal talks, until February 12, are designed to set ambitious rules for new types of aircraft in the future.