Travel green!

Every day we hear about global warming, the degraded environment and about increasing carbon emissions. Here are some facts about the role of the airline industry in global warming.

In 1995, the American Energy Information Administration (EIA) conducted research that indicated that the world energy consumption is projected to increase by 75 per cent between 1995 and 2020, reaching 639 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu). The study reported that the total global carbon emissions in 2010 would be 8,330 million metric tons (MMT) and in 2020 it would be 10,447 million metric tons (MMT).

Data talk

According to the data issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the airline industry accounts for two per cent of all carbon emissions. In the past very few people flew, choosing instead to use other modes of transportation. Now, the need-to-travel scenario has completely changed.

Whatever the travel reason, this has subsequently added pressure towards increasing the flight fleet size. IATA states that air travel demand is projected to grow by 50 per cent over the next 40 years, therefore carbon emissions will also increase accordingly.

An aircraft flies by burning fuel at the ratio of 1:3, which is three gallons of fuel per mile. In order to alleviate this, the annual meetings of IATA assembled several proposals and actions for decreasing carbon emissions to reach a state of "zero emissions". This is done by undertaking various steps such as improving fuel efficiency, using fuel efficient aircrafts and alternative aviation fuels.

Green to go

The Airbus 380 going greener has definitely opened doors for both the airline and tourism industries aiming towards eco-friendly or green travel. The Super Jumbo has a total carrying capacity of around 525 to 835 passengers, reducing the overall amount of carbon emissions per passenger. With the world's leading airlines all geared up to operate this aircraft soon, passengers could enjoy eco-travel and the airline industry will also be able to fly green.

While the airline and tourism industries are striving harder to reduce carbon emissions, practice sustainable approaches and green travel principles; some renowned world figures and celebrities, including environmental ambassadors, are still seen chartering big jets as a means to travel around the world.

With people chanting about eco-tourism and struggling hard to find solutions to conserve the Earth, it seems unethical to destroy the environment for short-lived comforts. All travellers must practise the principles of green travel instead of just spreading the buzzword. With the introduction of new and innovative methods to reduce carbon emissions, let us also keep our home and our Earth green.
Let's travel responsibly!

— The writer is a Gulf News Reader's club member.

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