Public feedback is being sought on implementation of a global carbon offsetting scheme to help tackle the impact of flying on the climate.
The proposal outlines options for how the UK will implement the UN’s global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
Overseen by the UN’s specialised aviation agency, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the scheme requires airlines to offset CO2 emissions on international routes.
This will be achieved by supporting initiatives such as switching to renewable energy sources – for example solar grid installations – and reforestation projects, the government said.
The consultation includes proposals for how the scheme will be regulated in the UK, including penalties for non-compliance, according to the Department for Transport.
The consultation also includes proposals for how the UK will implement CORSIA while maintaining commitments under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
To prevent flights from the UK to Europe from being subject to both CORSIA and the UK ETS the consultation suggests measures to ensure airlines are not “unfairly burdened”.
This approach also aims to avoid unnecessary price increases for passengers, ensuring the UK’s decarbonisation efforts do not negatively impact those who rely on air travel.
The consultation marks further progress in the UK’s commitment to addressing aviation emissions across the globe and follows the first meeting of the government’s new Jet Zero Taskforce.
Aviation minister Mike Kane said: “The UK is already at the forefront of global efforts to address climate change and carbon pricing schemes play a vital role in decarbonising aviation.
“The government is committed to supporting the aviation industry and with our Plan for Change at the heart, we’re helping the UK transition to a cleaner future in the most cost-effective way.
“We welcome all views on how airlines can continue participating in these crucial initiatives.”
With aviation contributing around 3% of global emissions, the UK is one of 129 countries now participating in CORSIA. This includes offering support to other countries to help them participate in the scheme.
Airlines UK chief executive Tim Alderslade said: “UK airlines are committed to net zero, which alongside innovation to reduce our emissions directly also means effective international action in what is an inherently global sector.
“We welcome this latest progress and look forward to working with government to strengthen CORSIA and put the whole industry on a net zero path by 2050.
“Effective carbon mechanisms are critical in ensuring we can continue to deliver for passengers and cargo for generations to come whilst remaining on track to take the carbon out of travel.”
Iata chief economist and sustainability senior vice president Marie Owens Thomsen welcomed the consultation and said: “CORSIA is the only global market-based scheme o reduce emissions from international air transportation and is critical to airlines’ decarbonisation efforts.
“The UK is the third largest air transport market globally and will play an important role in global efforts to decarbonise our industry.
“Iata supports this important consultation and the UK government’s plans to adopt and implement the scheme, and encourages countries to prepare for CORSIA implementation and to make the needed carbon credits available.”