Air France says it will proactively offset 100 per cent of CO2 emissions from domestic flights starting in 2020 as part of its environmental objectives.
Labelled “Air France Horizon 2030”, the airline’s sustainability roadmap will see it voluntarily offset emissions on all flights within mainland France starting 1 January through participation in environmental projects.
According to Air France, this represents an average of more than 450 flights per day and more than 57,000 customers.
In addition, corporate customers will be able to opt for voluntary compensation of up to 100 per cent of the emissions generated by their short, medium and long-haul flights via a dedicated offer to acquire carbon credits that fund reforestation projects.
Furthermore, Air France plans to reduce its total CO2 emissions by 50 per cent per passenger kilometre compared to 2005 and fuel consumption per passenger kilometre to three litres by 2030.
As of 1 October, the airline is also introducing selective waste sorting on board its flights to Paris, with items such as plastic, cartons, aluminium and glass due to be handled by Servair at Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports and recycled in France and Europe. This adds to Air France’s existing commitment to eliminate 1,300 tonnes of single-use plastics from its on board service by the end of this year. It aims to reduce non-recycled waste by 50 per cent compared to 2011.
CEO Anne Rigail commented: “We must step up the transition to a more sustainable form of air transport and we are voluntarily making new commitments for today and 2030.
“Air transport brings people together and promotes an openness to the world. Our ambition is to be a driving force for action and innovation in the creation of a sustainable aviation sector.”
The carrier will also invest in research and innovation for sustainable alternatives in the aviation sector with the Solar Impulse Foundation.
Read “Air France Horizon 2030” here