Oneworld member airlines commit to net zero carbon emissions by 2050

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12  -- Oneworld member airlines have committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, becoming the first global airline alliance to unite behind a common target of achieving carbon neutrality.

The alliance said its 13 members, which include Malaysia Airlines, would develop individual approaches to reach the target through initiatives such as efficiency measures, investments in sustainable aviation fuels and more fuel-efficient aircraft, reduction of waste and single-use plastics, and carbon offsets.

Oneworld chairman Alan Joyce, who is also Qantas group chief executive officer (CEO), said the commitment of these airlines underlined the importance given by the alliance on becoming a more sustainable industry. 

“Despite the challenges we are all facing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we have not lost sight of the responsibility we have to reduce emissions in the long term and today’s announcement reflects the strength of that commitment,” he said in a statement today.

Initiatives already in progress at many member airlines include the use of more sustainable materials, investment in more fuel-efficient aircraft, and the development of sustainable aviation fuels.

International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent of member carriers British Airways and Iberia, was the first airline group worldwide to commit to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, oneworld said.

Japan Airlines and Qantas have followed suit, while another member airline, Finnair, aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.

Oneworld member airlines plan to achieve the carbon neutrality target within the existing environmental framework previously agreed to by the governments, including through the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Aviation Group group CEO and Malaysia Airlines Bhd CEO Captain Izham Ismail said Malaysia Airlines was proud to be in support of this “amazing initiative” together with fellow member airlines towards driving the long-term sustainability of the aviation industry.

“We seek to play a greater part in building a legacy for future generations and are enhancing our own airline’s contribution to global sustainability efforts,” he added.

-- BERNAMA