24 May 2007
A new carbon compensation programme for aircraft, which claims to be the first of its kind, has been launched in America for general aviation aircraft such as corporate jets, air charters, fractional ownership programs, and private and sport aviation.
The <a href=’http://www.carbonneutralplane.com/’ target=’_blank’>Carbon Neutral Plane Program</a> will certify that participating aircraft have compensated 100% for the carbon dioxide they release into the air, by supporting projects which aim to reduce the amount CO2 equivalent to their energy usage.
“Compensation is accomplished through the widely accepted practice of purchasing carbon offsets from verified projects and programs,” says the program’s press release. It goes on to point out that while such offsetting is common in Europe, it’s also increasing in the United States. With increases in air transport, and therefore the amount of aircraft-produced CO2 emissions, predicted the CNPP has been introduced to counteract this.
Two versions of the scheme are available: the second of these is tailored specifically to light aircraft. In this option the individual plane owner submits a personal statement of annual aircraft use and required CO2 offsets are determined based on FAA standard fuel consumption statistics for the appropriate class of aeroplane (single-or multi-engine). The owner receives an annual decal for display in or on the plane and a hard-copy membership certificate.
You can, of course, do the same for your own personal flying in the UK by going to FLYER’s Green pages at <a href=’http://www.flyer.co.uk/green’ target=’_blank’ style=”color:green”>www.flyer.co.uk/green</a>
