The European Commission set the cat among the pigeons late last year when it announced plans to cap CO2 emissions from all aircraft using EU airports, and to introduce “pollution credits” that airlines could trade as part of the existing Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) for industrial installations.
Its ideas have since provoked anger from all sides – Europe’s aviation industry says it receives less favorable treatment than other industry sectors in the EU, the US is threatening trade sanctions, environmental activists claim it’s inadequate and other transport industries say it doesn’t redress the many tax benefits that have fuelled the air travel boom.
Is there a way forward that will achieve a balanced approach with environmental benefits while at the same time preserving the EU’s competitiveness? Will the proposed inclusion of aviation in the EU ETS impact the discussions on a global scheme for aviation? Is there a possibility it could impact on Kyoto II?
Featuring:
Marianne Klingbeil, Head of Unit, Clean Air and Transport, European Commission
Gordon Olafson, DHL Airline Director for Europe and EEMEA