FAA Administrator Michael Huerta Statement on Global Carbon Emissions Standards Agreement
"I
am pleased that ICAO reached an international consensus on a meaningful
standard to foster reduction in CO2 emissions from aircraft. We are encouraged
by this success and believe it puts us on a promising path to secure a robust
market-based measure later this year. This is another example of the
administration's deep commitment to working with the international
community on policies that will reduce harmful carbon pollution
worldwide." Background: The
U.S. prides itself on making progress in all areas of ICAO�s agreed-upon
�basket of measures� to address aviation greenhouse gas emissions. This
includes the development of new airframe and engine technologies, aircraft
operational improvements, sustainable, alternative fuels, and a global
market-based measure [Global MBM] as a gap-filler. For
example, through our Continuous Lower Energy Emissions and Noise (CLEEN)
Program, we work closely with industry on accelerating the maturation of new
aircraft and engine technologies to reduce fuel burn. The
FAA is well under way with a broad set of initiatives under our modernization
of U.S. air transportation system. We have put in more than 7,000 GPS-based
NextGen procedures so far, the majority of which result in more efficient
routing. This reduces both fuel consumption and emissions. Moreover,
we partner with academia and industry in efforts to develop, test and approve
sustainable alternative jet fuels. We also collaborate with other civil
aviation authorities to leverage progress being made in this vital area
internationally. The
final element in the �basket� is a global market-based measure, which we view
as a gap-filler to ensure our airlines can keep their international aviation
emissions at 2020 levels. Since the 2013 ICAO Assembly, we have continued to
work within ICAO to take a holistic approach to addressing aviation�s
contribution to climate change. We, along with other Member States, continue to
believe that addressing the entire basket of measures is the most effective way
for international aviation to reduce its carbon footprint.
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