Everyone from Road Haulage to Container Shipping is Going Green - Now Air Freight Enlists

UK – WORLDWIDE – We hear much these days about carriers of all types reducing the environmental impact of their everyday activities, from road haulage operators opting for automatic new generation trucks, often controlled by social initiatives such as London’s LEZ, to shipping lines opting for larger container vessels with new efficient power sources, technologically advanced hull coatings and ballast water treatment systems. One sector which is constantly under pressure is the air freight and passenger market which is currently addressing a problem particularly associated with the industry – noise pollution.

Last month, at a reception in the Houses of Parliament, a group formed of disparate elements in the trade, aerospace manufacturers, airlines and other stakeholders, released a ‘Noise Road Map’ representing a review of current and future operating practices highlighting how, through the development of new technology and by working with communities and Government, the amount of noise produced by airports can be reduced without impacting on growth.

The group, Sustainable Aviation, targets a long term strategy which sets out the collective approach of UK aviation to tackling the challenge of ensuring a sustainable future for the industry. Since its inception in 2005 it has produced three Progress Reports, the latest published in March 2011, following others in 2006 and 2009. Now this latest report prioritises four key areas: Aircraft and Engine Technology; Operational Improvements; Land Use Planning and Noise Communication and Community Engagement.

In line with the Government’s policy of rebalancing the economy by a rise in manufacturing whilst increasing exports to countries outside the EU, the group believes that the air cargo industry's ability to deliver high value, low weight products quickly, including key items such as electronics and pharmaceuticals, will mean efficient air freight services will be crucial to success. Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Freight Group, Stoke MP Rob Flello, emphasised his support for the latest report, saying:

“I welcome the release of the Sustainable Aviation Noise Road Map, it shows how the development of new technology and the continued review of best practice is helping to improve the lives of those who live in the communities which surround airports. I hope that the Government will engage with groups such as Sustainable Aviation and ensure policy balances the needs of local communities with the need to promote economic growth by increasing freight and passenger capacity.”

You can read the Sustainable Aviation Noise Road Map HERE.