Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
A
IRLINES
AND
SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
Hugh Somerville, British Airways
Introduction
In May 1999, the UK government strategy for sustainable development was pub-
lished (DETR, 1999) and provides a useful benchmark against which to examine
aviation. According to the UK government, sustainable development involves 'a bet-
ter quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come' (DETR, 1999).
This brief interpretation is relatively easy to support, though some might argue that
it could be more demanding. There is little doubt that aviation can improve the
quality of life. Discussion centres on the selective nature of access to aviation and the
balance of costs and benefits. While the real cost of aviation has reduced over the
years, it is still only accessible to a minority of the global population. No one should
contest the need for a favourable balance of benefits against undesirable environ-
mental and social effects. Quality of life and sustainability cannot be delivered by
individual companies but, rather, by society as a whole.
The UK government identifies four objectives for sustainable development and
these can be used as a framework for considering aviation.
Social progress that recognizes the needs of everyone
Aviation is an essential part of the world's communication and economic system.
Directly and indirectly, it provides jobs throughout the world. Leisure and business
travel, and air cargo provide benefits to economies, both of developed and less-
developed countries. By bringing people together, airlines contribute to business, to
political understanding and to cultural interchange. Leading companies in aviation
are publicly reporting on relevant social issues. However, business and society, as a
whole, still have a long way to go to realize aspirations respecting human rights.
Effective protection of the environment
Aviation has invested consistently in clean technology, through acquisition of newer
aircraft emitting less noise, using less fuel and emitting less of polluting exhaust gases.
Many airlines now track progress in minimizing effects on the environment through
targets and indicators, which are reported to the public. There is an open and expand-
ing programme of reporting on environmental performance and engaging in dia-
logue with key stakeholder groups.
Prudent use of natural resources
Leading airlines measure and report the consumption of natural resources and set
targets for improvement. Although remarkable progress has been made, there is still
a long way to go. We believe that efficiency is an essential first step on the route to
long-term sustainability.
