The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) sees its responsibility to address, limit or reduce the impact of aviation greenhouse gas emissions on the global climate.
During the latest session of the Assembly - held at ICAO Headquarters in Montréal from 18 to 28 September 2007 - some members (Egypt, Chile, LACAC) expressed their concerns regarding the EU initiative to include aviation into the European Emission Trading system (ETS). Though all members agree on market mechanisms - not taxes - as best solution.
To fly is most polluting means of transportation, by kilometer, hour and person. The emitted amount of CO2 is estimated to double by 2015, including better efficiency of engines. Emitting NOx and steam at high altitude, forming cirrus clouds and trails even multiplies the climate effects by 2-4.
Assuming a trading system for the european airspace only and an average cost of 10 EURO per ton of CO2 tickets for midrange flights (>1500km) will include an extra amount of about 9 EURO.
Until an international agreement is found it is up to the passengers to compensate their emissions for example with atmosfair. This company uses CDM and invests in e.g. hydropower projects in developing countries.
More:
ICAO: Assembly Resolutions in Force (2004)
IPCC: Aviation and the Global Atmosphere
EU/CE: Giving wings to emission trading
Reuters: Britons top table of carbon emissions from planes
International Blog Action Day
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