Discover what net zero carbon emissions means and explore how Etihad Airways will achieve net zero emissions by 2050. We’re leading the movement for net zero emissions among airlines to help protect our planet for the future. Find out what you can do to help us on our journey.
What is net zero carbon emissions?
Net zero carbon emissions mean you are actively reducing the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere and offsetting the amount produced with other activities or by avoiding it in the first place. For an airline like Etihad, this net zero target would mean any emissions released into the atmosphere by us are actively reduced so we add no more than we take away.(S1)
Carbon emissions are causing climate change, which is why many global authorities and businesses – including Etihad – are pledging to reduce emissions and eventually reach the all-important net zero figure.
Achieving net zero emissions is a long-term goal which involves the adaptation of existing processes and infrastructure to be more sustainable. This can be done using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, water, and hydrogen power.
Low carbon technologies and waste reduction policies can also be implemented to reduce carbon emissions. These might include the use of electric vehicles, moving to digital platforms rather than printing, and the recycling of materials.
As a global airline flying passengers around the world, we take the environmental impacts of aviation seriously. We have made several significant changes to our operations and are trialling innovative green technologies through our sustainability programme .
To achieve our zero net CO2 emissions goal by 2050, we’re aiming to reduce emissions intensity. That means working to find new and efficient ways to combat our emissions in a measurable way. That measurement is the amount of CO2 produced per each seat, per each flown kilometre. This will be achieved by continuing to innovate through EcoFlights, using sustainable fuels, reducing and recycling waste, innovating in fuel consumption and utilising electric ground transportation.
Our existing sustainability projects include:
Why is net zero emissions important?
Heat retention caused by carbon emissions is causing climate change, extreme weather, and in many cases, the destruction of natural habitats and wildlife. If climate change continues on the same path, we will see extreme weather disruption, loss of ice-covered landscapes and rising of sea levels.
It’s vital that we act now and help to protect the future of the planet by embracing sustainability and reducing our carbon emissions. Net zero CO2 emissions from all areas of human activity are our solution to combating climate change, as the reduction in greenhouse gases will help to cool the Earth’s atmosphere. Innovation in eco-friendly initiatives are a core part of embracing the necessity of technology, and the safety of our planet.
How can passengers help Etihad achieve net zero emissions
By choosing to fly with Etihad, you’re already one step closer to reducing your carbon footprint. But there’s even more you can do to help us in our pledge to achieve net zero emissions:
It’s important to choose an airline that operates a modern and efficient fleet.
Our CO2 emissions calculator lets you work out the difference in CO2 emissions between an Etihad flight compared to the average emissions of other airlines operating the same or similar route.
To get started, tell us where you're flying to.
Net zero emissions and airlines: FAQs
For a long-haul return flight, each passenger generates roughly 968kg of CO2[MS(1] . A shorter journey – such as Abu Dhabi to Qatar – would give each passenger a carbon footprint of around 230kg of CO2. These figures will vary depending on the age of the aircraft, the number of people on board and the type of fuel used.
A carbon neutral airline removes the same amount of carbon emissions from the atmosphere as it produces. This can be achieved through carbon offset programmes, and initiatives such as Etihad’s Mangrove Forest, where trees are planted to balance out the emissions.
Etihad’s pledge is to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, using sustainable flights and rewarding eco-minded travellers. We’ll also continue to work with our innovative partners to fight against climate change.
Read our sustainability report to understand our on-going goals, initiatives and innovations in eco-friendly aviation.
