CAMBRIDGE: The aviation sector may fall short of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, a target considered crucial in the fight against climate change, according to Professor Rob Miller, Director of the Aviation Impact Accelerator at the University of Cambridge. Speaking at an event on “Aviation Impact Accelerators and Leap Energy” at COP29, Miller emphasized the increasing global reliance on air transportation, which currently serves only 10% of the global population but is expected to grow with rising incomes, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, aviation already contributes approximately 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. When accounting for non-CO2 impacts, its contribution to global warming rises to about 4%. Despite ambitious commitments from both governments and the aviation industry to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, Miller warned that the sector is perilously off course. He stressed the need for urgent and decisive action to stay on track.
Miller highlighted that while global leaders ha
ve endorsed the vision of a net-zero carbon aviation sector, current efforts are inadequate in both breadth and pace. In some instances, proposed solutions could worsen the situation. He cited the example of heavily relying on biofuels for jet fuel, which could exacerbate environmental challenges if not managed properly.