Sustainability can no longer be an afterthought, which is why the aviation industry is working towards the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This will be achieved through a combination of increased fuel efficiency solutions, alternative fuels, new technologies, carbon reduction and removal research and development, and more. Air Canada recognizes it must do its part to reduce its environmental footprint, which is why it’s working towards a more sustainable era of travel.
Air Canada has an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 that stems from its Climate Action Plan. To reach that goal, Air Canada is focusing on key emission reduction pillars.
Fleet Renewal and Operations
Under its fleet renewal program, Air Canada will continue to deploy energy efficient Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 MAX narrow-body fleets that are more efficient compared to older aircraft. These aircraft are expected to generate roughly 20 per cent less carbon dioxide (CO2), and 50 per cent less nitrogen oxides than the aircraft they replace. It has also committed to electrifying its ground equipment with deliveries of electric vehicles continuing to arrive this year.
Innovation
In 2022, the airline announced a purchase agreement for 30 ES-30 electric-hybrid aircraft under development by Heart Aerospace Sweden. Investing in revolutionary electric aircraft technology reinforces the airline’s commitment to work towards long-term sustainability.
SAF and Clean Energy
Air Canada has committed to invest $50 million in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon reduction, and removal development by 2030. This includes supporting Direct Air Capture technology by the Canadian climate solution company Carbon Engineering.
Carbon Offset Program
The airline has partnered with CHOOOSE to provide its customers with verified carbon offsets to compensate the estimated greenhouse gas emissions associated with their flight. The voluntary program gives customers the opportunity to support certified third-party projects that reduce, avoid or remove GHG emissions. Projects supported include forest management in British Columbia and Peru, mangrove ecosystem conservation in Columbia, and improved cookstoves for indigenous people in Nepal.
Want to learn more about Air Canada’s climate action efforts and its sustainable travel offering for corporate customers? Visit leaveless.aircanada.com.
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