(TAN): Air Canada has set ambitious climate targets to realize a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) throughout its global operations by 2050, the airline said in a statement.
To reach this, Air Canada has set absolute midterm GHG net reduction targets by 2030 in its air and ground operations compared to its 2019 baseline, and has committed to investing CAD 50 million (USD 40.3 billion) in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and carbon reductions and removals.
“Economic growth and sustainability are equally important, and we have a strong track record for both. Despite the severe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, we remain deeply committed to long-term sustainability. Climate change is critical, and we believe we can and must do more to address this for the future of our environment. This is why we are further embedding climate considerations into our strategic decision-making, and undertaking a very ambitious plan that is meaningful, will support Canada’s leadership position on climate change, advance de-carbonization in the airline industry while keeping fares affordable for customers,” said Michael Rousseau, president and CEO at Air Canada.
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Air Canada is very focused on investing in innovative, long term, sustainable GHG emission reduction solutions. Absolute 2030 midterm GHG reduction targets have been set to ensure meaningful progress towards Air Canada’s ambitions net zero goal while the airline, technology and energy sectors are transitioning to low carbon alternatives.
Air Canada has identified the following key carbon reduction pillars:
Fleet and operations: Air Canada will continue deploying its newly modernized and energy efficient Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 MAX narrow-body fleets that are more efficient and expected to average approximately 20 per cent less fuel consumption per seat and emit approximately 20% less CO2 and 50% nitrogen oxides than aircraft they replace, continue to integrate climate factors in route and fleet planning, phase out carbon-intensive ground equipment, further advance electric vehicles and seek other electrification opportunities.
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Innovation: Further evaluate the viability, safety and performance of new electric, hydrogen or hybrid operational technologies, and other innovations such as short-haul transportation opportunities and electric drones to complement and support Air Canada’s global business network.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels and clean energy: The airline will invest CAD 50 million in SAF and other low carbon aviation fuel development, evaluate the practical applications of renewable energy sources such as biogas and renewable electricity, and energy transition measures.
Carbon reductions and removals: Air Canada will explore carbon negative emission technologies and other direct emission reduction and removal strategies in addition to further developing its carbon offset strategy for CORSIA compliance, customer offerings and more.
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