Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 5
5
Deferred
Paragraph: 51
Lay draft statutory instrument defining international aviation and shipping emissions before Parliament
Recommendation
We recommend that the Government lay before Parliament for approval, without further delay, a draft statutory instrument under section 30 of the Climate Change Act 2008 to define the emissions from international aviation and international shipping which are to be reckoned as emissions from sources in the United Kingdom.
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the recommendation but does not commit to laying the draft statutory instrument. Instead, it discusses the refreshed Airspace Modernisation Strategy and its focus on modernising airspace and enabling new aircraft technologies.
Paragraph Reference:
51
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Government agrees with this recommendation. A refreshed Airspace Modernisation Strategy (AMS) was published in January 2023 which extends the strategy out to 2040, reaffirming our commitment to delivering this key infrastructure programme5. The AMS sets out the ways, means and ends of modernising airspace through nine elements that will modernise aircraft-based navigation and airspace management. Sustainability is an overarching principle of the strategy. The environmental benefits of the strategy will contribute towards our Jet Zero emissions reductions targets for the aviation sector. One core element is airspace integration, which will enable new and innovative aircraft to share the skies safely alongside existing air traffic. These new technologies, such as Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS or commonly known as drones) and certified electric, Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs), could help facilitate some modal shift 5 https://www.caa.co.uk/commercial-industry/airspace/airspace-modernisation/airspace-modernisation-strategy/ about-the-strategy/ from road or rail for passenger journeys, deliveries or freight to more sustainable electric options, and open up new aviation markets. It is anticipated that technologies supporting UAS and eVTOLs will also benefit the future operation of other aircraft. DfT and the CAA are looking at ways to streamline processes and accelerate advancement through the Airspace Modernisation programme whilst maintaining a stable framework for delivery.