Global leaders in the aviation industry meet to discuss strategies for addressing Carbon Constraints in Commercial Aviation
Today the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology together with its partner MIT (the Massachusetts Institute of Technology) welcomed leading business figures, stakeholders and analysts from the regional and global aviation industry to discuss strategies aimed at addressing carbon constraints and promoting sustainable aviation.
The workshop focused on several key issues currently facing the aviation industry such as the current status of the industry’s emissions footprint, trends in emissions, climate change science, biofuels and industry consolidation. Participants also discussed potential regulatory actions to reduce emissions from aviation including potential CO² standards for commercial aircraft as well as emissions trading schemes.
According to Dr. John Perkins, Provost of the Masdar Institute, “The workshop is an excellent educational opportunity for airlines, transport authorities, manufacturers and researchers to learn from each other and to develop future strategies for a sustainable aviation industry. The Masdar Institute’s partnership with MIT supports Abu Dhabi’s long-term strategic vision to lead research in alternative energy with a strong focus on developing commercially-viable solutions for the aviation industry.”
Participants at the workshop were able to hear presentations from both the Masdar Institute and MIT about their latest research projects, which include work in the area of airline operational improvements, strategies for addressing carbon constraints and alternative fuel options in aviation. In the past week the Masdar Institute, Boeing [NYSE: BA], Etihad and Honeywell UOP launched a major research and demonstration project in Abu Dhabi dedicated to sustainable energy solutions. The Sustainable Bioenergy Research Project (SBRP) will use integrated saltwater agricultural systems to support the development and commercialization of biofuel sources for aviation, and co-products.
Participants at the workshop included representatives from leading airlines and aviation industry stakeholders, such as Boeing, Fedex, Etihad, the Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), Qatar Airways as well as private consultants and analysts.
