British Airways, one of the finest airlines has launched an ambitious initiative to accelerate its climate action by investing over £9 million in carbon removal credits. The move strengthens its position as the UK’s largest carbon removal purchaser and the leading airline in the space. These efforts are part of the company’s broader strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
In Pursuit of Aviation Sustainability!
Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, gave a long statement on this move. He said,
As we approach the halfway point in this critical decade of action, we’re sharpening our focus on delivering real, tangible progress by 2030. We know flying has a significant impact on the planet, and achieving net zero by 2050 requires bold, innovative action today, as well as long-term transformation, and our latest investments in carbon removals reflects this commitment. While small in comparison to our total emissions, these projects are crucial in stimulating the carbon removals market. By supporting pioneering solutions, we’re not only contributing to immediate progress but also laying the groundwork for the large-scale changes needed to meet our climate goals. There is no pathway to net zero for aviation without carbon removals.”
From the UK to Canada: British Airways’ Innovative Carbon Removal Projects
The press release has rolled out details of all the innovative carbon removal projects that British Airways is pursuing in both the UK and abroad. One standout initiative is in Scotland, which involves capturing CO2 emissions from whisky distilleries and repurposing them into building materials. Additionally, they have invested in an enhanced rock weathering (ERW) technique that locks carbon for a prolonged time in different parts of the country.
The airline has also committed to purchasing carbon credits from high-durability reforestation projects in Scotland and Wales, aimed at expanding forested areas. These projects demonstrate British Airways’ focus on both reducing emissions and enhancing natural carbon sinks.
Aviation’s carbon capture efforts in Canada involve removing carbon dioxide from rivers and oceans using alkaline rock particles. Another key initiative is its investment in a biochar project in India. This project not only boosts soil biodiversity but also empowers female farmers by enhancing farm productivity. Through this effort, the airline is supporting sustainable agriculture while addressing climate change.
Partnering with CUR8, Earthshot Prize, and Climeworks
To further scale up its sustainability goals, British Airways has teamed up with UK-based CUR8, which specializes in sourcing high-quality carbon removal credits. The airline purchased 33,000 tons of these credits, a step that, while small compared to its total emissions, signals its commitment to advancing this emerging sector.
Marta Krupinska, CEO of CUR8, applauded British Airways’ crucial role in carbon removals. She expressed pride in partnering with the airline that is building a diverse portfolio spanning from the UK to Canada.
She also highlighted that CUR8 has top scientists and the best climate software to help organizations like British Airways source and manage carbon removals, reducing risks for their net zero goals.
British Airways is also a key partner of The Earthshot Prize, an organization dedicated to discovering and scaling climate solutions. This partnership aligns with the airline’s focus on fostering innovation in the aviation sector, including the development of sustainable aviation fuels and advanced carbon removal techniques. In addition, British Airways has purchased carbon removal credits from Climeworks, which operates the world’s two largest Direct Air Capture plants in Iceland.
Flying Toward a Greener Future: Net Zero Ambitions
British Airways acknowledges that achieving net zero by 2050 is a significant challenge for the aviation industry. According to Carrie Harris, roughly one-third of the airline’s emissions reductions by 2050 will come from carbon removals. While these investments are a fraction of the airline’s overall emissions, they play a crucial role in scaling up a sector that is vital for long-term climate goals. With its new investment, British Airways is actively supporting the growth of this essential market.
Carbon Removals are Not Enough…
In March the company announced is investing millions to upgrade its ground support equipment at Heathrow Airport, reinforcing its commitment to cutting emissions both on the ground and in the air. The airline is gradually replacing its vehicles, including vans, cargo transporters, and passenger steps, with hybrid or electric alternatives. Currently, over 90% of its ground vehicles at Heathrow run on zero-emission electric power or operate using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel.
British Airways is the first global airline to commit to net zero emissions by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5-degree goal. This commitment addresses Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, covering the entire value chain.
Source: BA
Significantly, it aims to reduce its emissions intensity to 86gCO2 per passenger kilometer by 2050. The airline will continue to monitor its progress and adjust its plans with emerging innovations to achieve this goal.
Commitment to SAF
The airline uses SAF produced from sustainable sources, including used cooking oil, woody biomass, and agricultural waste. By 2030, British Airways aims to fly with 10% SAF, following the UK government’s SAF Mandate guidelines. This initiative includes investing in innovative SAF plants in the UK and the US to enhance SAF availability and improve aircraft operations.
This study highlights British Airways as a leader in carbon removal credits and a key driver of change in the aviation sector. The airline’s current efforts are paving the way for the large-scale transformations needed to achieve net zero climate goals for all airlines.