Environmental Sustainability Measures and Evaluation
Airbus Sets Ambitious Greenhouse Gas Emission Targets, Aiming for a Sustainable Aviation Future
In a significant move towards a greener future, Airbus, the global aerospace manufacturer, has had its near-term greenhouse gas emission targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) [1]. These targets, validated in February 2023, encompass ambitious goals for reducing emissions and energy consumption.
Airbus' approved targets include a near-term goal of reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 net greenhouse gas emissions by 63% by 2030 [1][4]. Additionally, the company aims for an energy reduction of 20% in the same timeframe [1]. Another key target is the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80%, a target that has also been validated by the SBTi [4].
These targets align with Airbus’ broader sustainability strategy, which includes technological innovations such as hydrogen propulsion and zero-emission aircraft projects planned for introduction by 2035 [3]. However, these are future commitments rather than current SBTi targets.
Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, is committed to applying strong principles to the company’s business practices. He asserts that Airbus can and should raise the bar on sustainability in the aviation industry [2]. Faury believes in challenging the company to go further in mitigating its environmental impact.
Airbus approaches its sustainability reporting with a focus on accuracy and transparency [6]. The company reports on its sustainability progress against globally-respected frameworks and standards [5]. In fact, Airbus was the first aircraft manufacturer to disclose Scope 3 figures for the aircraft it delivers [2].
These initiatives reflect Airbus' commitment to a sustainable future for aviation. With these ambitious targets and a focus on transparency, Airbus is setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in the industry.
[1] - SBTi Approves Airbus' Greenhouse Gas Emission Targets [2] - Airbus Discloses Scope 3 Figures for the Aircraft it Delivers [3] - Airbus' Future Commitments: Hydrogen Propulsion and Zero-Emission Aircraft [4] - Airbus' Use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) with up to 80% Lifecycle Emissions Reduction [5] - Airbus' Sustainability Reporting Guided by Accuracy and Transparency [6] - Airbus Supports the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) since December 2020
In continuing their pursuit of a sustainable future, Airbus expands their focus beyond aviation. Embracing the concepts of sustainable living, they strive to create a lifestyle that harmonizes with the home-and-garden sector, promoting energy-efficient and eco-friendly solutions within their company and community.
Their dedication to sustainable practices extends beyond the aircraft, as Airbus takes steps to reduce their environmental impact by implementing sustainable home and garden solutions, such as utilizing rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and organic gardening methods in their company facilities.
