News  ·  25 January 2024

Accelerated CO₂ reduction necessary

The Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and research institute CE Delft were commissioned by Schiphol to investigate what is needed in order to bring Schiphol’s CO₂ emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. Research showed that at least a 30 percent CO2 reduction (when compared to 2019) is needed for Schiphol and European aviation to be on track in 2030. That’s more than the current (national) goal of a 9 percent reduction.

Polluter pays

To achieve that, a strengthened national and international policy is needed. Given the strong international nature of aviation, it is essential that the polluter pays. The following measures are therefore required at a national and international level:

  • Convert the Dutch air passenger tax to a distance-based tax. 20 percent of flights (long haul) are responsible for 80 percent of emissions. This tax would be in line with existing distance-based taxation in Germany and the UK.
  • Additional tax for business class and private flights.
  • Divert flight tax proceeds back to help the Dutch aviation sector accelerate its move away from fossil fuels. This would also create a competitive advantage for the development of sustainable aviation initiatives in the country.
  • Expand the European emissions trading scheme to include intercontinental flights. This currently only applies to flights within Europe.
  • Introduce a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in Europe to prevent carbon leakage and maintain an level playing field.
  • Commit to a worldwide kerosene tax and blending obligation through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Read the studies here:

SCBA

Together with KLM and Barin, Schiphol commissioned SEO, CE Delft, Significance, and the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) to conduct a social cost-benefit analysis (SCBA) looking at the welfare effects of fewer flights on the one hand, and more far-reaching environmental measures on the other. Schiphol has incorporated the results of the study into proposals and measures, such as the 8-point plan, to reduce the impact of flying on the surrounding area and the environment, and to accelerate the reduction of CO2 emissions.

Download the full report (in Dutch)