Air New Zealand has abandoned a 2030 goal to cut its carbon emissions, blaming difficulties securing more efficient planes and sustainable jet fuel.

The move makes it the first major carrier to back away from such a climate target.

The airline added it is working on a new short-term target and it remains committed to an industry-wide goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The aviation industry is estimated to produce around 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, which airlines have been trying to reduce with measures including replacing older aircraft and using fuel from renewable sources.

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[–] absGeekNZ 9 points 3 months ago (1 children)

This kinda sucks, but reading the article the main strategies that the industry is using is newer more efficient planes and SAF (sustainable aviation fuels). Both of which are in short supply.

I think Air NZ is being realistic here, if you can't buy the SAF and your new planes are delayed...and they are the two main strategies, it isn't too surprising that they are going to miss their targets.

[–] cloventt 3 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Perhaps they could consider setting new targets before axing the old ones?

[–] Dave 5 points 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) (1 children)

Yeah, weird to drop the target now and say they are working on a new one. Why not just stay silent until the new target is decided.

Edit: new theory, is this a negotiation tactic? Announce this stuff, tell the government they need help to save NZ's reputation, and get some government backing?

[–] absGeekNZ 2 points 3 months ago (1 children)

Maybe, we can't make the current strategy and there isn't a new strategy available.

[–] Dave 4 points 3 months ago

Yeah, but why announce it then? A lot can change between now and 2030, and the target was only set 2 years ago.

I think this is their way of asking for government help.