Today, together with the aviation industry has taken an innovative approach to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the current global rate of 2%, to zero emissions by 2050. The International Air Transport Association (IATA ) has publicly stated that it is rising to the challenge of climate change. very seriously.

Aviation stakeholders have collaboratively developed a four-pillar strategy to manage the effects of climate change caused by the industry.

The first pillar focuses on improving technology and concerns innovation in aircraft and sustainable alternative fuels.

The second pillar concerns the efficiency of infrastructures; improving the management of airspace and airport facilities.

The third pillar concerns operational improvements. It aims for efficient flight operations, optimized flight routes and processes.

Finally, there is the fourth pillar on economic measures related to market-based systems to reduce emissions.

In a world of carbon-friendly travel, major airlines have incorporated the content of these pillars into their operations. Air operators have developed sustainable strategies for the future with some ambitious individual goals.

Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and Air Canada are among dozens of airlines that have pledged to emit net zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. These operators support the need for operational efficiency through sustainable aviation fuels and fuel-efficient aircraft committing to fleet renewal.

Aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus are strategizing on bringing zero carbon commercial aircraft to market. Disruptive aircraft trends, such as redesigned wings, avionics and engines, are over or late in life. As part of sustainable strategies to power planes, industry players are also considering the use of electric planes that would operate at half the cost and noise of conventional planes. The formidable challenge, however, is the viability of modern battery technology.

Soon, planes could be powered entirely by conventional fuel, hydrogen or a hybrid, as these sources have little or no effect on the climate. A hydrogen powered commercial flight was performed in 2020 by ZeroAvia. Seoul Incheon Airport in Korea has commissioned hydrogen filling stations, signaling a significant shift towards hydrogen as an alternative energy source.

So far, sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) have been a favorable option for greener flight due to their low carbon intensity. These fuels are considered a game changer as they reduce carbon emissions by 85% compared to regular jet fuel.

In this era of revolutionary aviation practices, the Avia Group has kept abreast of global trends in sustainable development. The group adheres to the principles of environmental sustainability as part of corporate social responsibility by adhering to environmental protection standards. The group has deliberately set itself the goal of reducing its energy consumption and its CO2 footprint by limiting staff travel.

Airlines are constantly committing to industry best practices to reduce the presence of plastics in their onboard products with the ability to switch to biodegradable sources or promote recycling facilities.

Imagine using in-flight catering utensils made from bamboo products on your next flight? A bamboo bowl or meal tray! Some airlines are already adopting these measures in an attempt to manage climate-related risks.

A private flight company, Vistajet, uses sustainable alternatives for its in-flight products. In their cabin, for example, plastics have been replaced by bamboo and glass products. Beginning at the end of this year, All Nippon Airways announced plans to introduce new meal trays made from biodegradable materials. In addition, airport authorities are increasingly banning the use of non-degradable plastics.

In the recent past, contaminants such as cleaning products on aircraft structural components and airport surfaces have raised concerns. However, industry players are constantly pushing for low impact detergents and cleaning products.

The global platform saw the introduction of two regimes. First, the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).

Second, the International Civil Aviation Organization Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Program (CORSIA).

Both systems operate by capping emission levels and trading allowances, complementing the other three pillars.

The strategies, regulations and research frameworks for achieving the environmental goals of aviation are prominent. The commitment displayed by industry players today is a clear demonstration of planet-friendly flight towards a sustainable and prosperous aviation future. Michel gill, IATA’s Director of Aviation Environment, says: “Safety remains paramount, but sustainability is the measure by which we will be judged for decades to come! “

On Gediminas Ziemelis:

Throughout a career in business development of more than 24 years, Gediminas Ziemelis has established more than 50 start-ups and creative investments in various industries such as IT, media, luxury furniture, pharmacy, clinics, agriculture and other industrial sectors. At present, these companies are either owned by PE “Vertas Management” or have been sold previously and are now part of other important organizations.

Gediminas Ziemelis is the Founder and President of Avia Solutions Group – a leading global aerospace services group with nearly 100 offices and production stations providing aviation services and solutions worldwide.

During his career to date, G. Ziemelis has received many prestigious industry awards and accolades. In 2016, G. Ziemelis received a prestigious European Business Award in recognition of his visionary skills in business management and development. The same year, under his leadership, Avia Solutions Group was named national public champion in the Entrepreneurship category, earning a place in the top 110 of European companies. Twice – in 2012 and again in 2014 – Ziemelis was recognized as one of the 40 most talented young leaders in the global aerospace industry by the leader United States aerospace magazine ‘Aviation Week’.

During his career, Gediminas Ziemelis has participated in many impressive business ventures. Between 2014 and 2017, he personally supported and consulted with Chinese banks (including ICBCL, CMBL and Skyco Leasing) regarding the financing of aircraft sale and leaseback transactions with a total value greater than US $ 4 billion.

Between 2006 and 2019, the president of the Avia Solutions group successfully executed the IPOs of 4 companies at OMX and WSE, oversaw numerous public bond issues, as well as the raising of public capital worth over of 400 million US dollars.

His total net worth is US $ 1.1 billion, according to local business media.

SOURCE Avia Solutions Group