EU proposes airlines join emissions trading scheme
BRUSSELS (Reuters) – Aircraft departing from the European
Union should join the EU’s emissions trading scheme to cut
greenhouse gases that harm the environment, the European
Commission proposed on Tuesday.
The Commission said emissions trading was more
environmentally beneficial or cost effective than imposing
taxes or charges — two other options the EU executive had
considered in order to enlist airlines in the fight against
“The boom in flying is bringing with it a rapid rise in
greenhouse gas emissions,” said Environment Commissioner
Stavros Dimas in a statement.
“Extending emissions trading to the aviation sector will
limit these emissions and ensure that aviation, like all other
sectors, contribute to reducing the harmful greenhouse gases.
Through emission trading, airlines will be able to do so at the
least possible costs,” he said.