A Fresh Take on Russia and International Aviation’s Carbon Footprint
Duma Suggests Minimizing Price Hikes for Flights Using "Eco-friendly" Fuel - Proposal Intended
It's no secret that the aviation industry contributes heavily to carbon emissions, and in 2016, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) established the CORSIA system to combat this issue. Member countries, including Russia, were slated to increase fuel efficiency by 2% by 2050 and stabilize CO2 emissions from 2020. The rules have been voluntary since 2021 but will become mandatory from 2027.
However, according to ICAO resolution A41-22, airlines will pay for CO2 emissions exceeding the baseline level (85% of the 2019 level). This additional cost could pose a significant challenge for Russian airlines, as stated by deputy Yuri Stankevich. The increased costs could lead to higher ticket prices for passengers and an increase in air cargo prices, particularly affecting time-sensitive cargo like pharmaceuticals and perishable goods.
To address this issue, Stankevich suggests the launch of production of low-carbon aviation fuel (LCAF or SAF) in Russia. Currently, only companies from unfriendly countries are involved in its verification, he noted. Therefore, the deputy called for creating conditions to have ICAO recognize the ability of Russian aviation fuel to reduce its carbon footprint.
It's worth noting that, in 2022, Russia declared it doesn't consider itself bound by ICAO resolution A41-22 on criteria for assessing emissions for the CORSIA system. Russia's representation at the organization pointed out the futility of compensation measures in the face of unilateral sanctions against international civil aviation.
Russia's decision not to participate in the initial voluntary phase of the CORSIA system could expose its aviation sector to competitive and regulatory risks. If major trading partners enforce stricter aviation emission standards, Russian carriers could face operational restrictions or competitive disadvantages on international routes.
On the brighter side, if Russia decides to join the cleaner fuel bandwagon, it could explore strategies such as biofuel production, hydrogen-based fuels, or domestic regulatory frameworks to preempt international pressure. However, specific details about Russia’s current SAF initiatives are yet to be disclosed.
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- The rules of CORSIA, which tackle aircraft emissions, will become mandatory for airlines, including those in Russia, from 2027.
- According to deputy Yuri Stankevich, the increasing costs of CO2 emissions, as per ICAO resolution A41-22, could lead to higher prices for passengers and air cargo, particularly for perishable goods and pharmaceuticals.
- To counteract these costs, Stankevich advocates for the production of low-carbon aviation fuel (LCAF or SAF) in Russia, aiming to have ICAO recognize its ability to reduce carbon emissions.
