This initiative is part of the UAE's significant transformational projects for 2024. CORSIA, a global scheme adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) under its General Assembly resolution in 2016, was implemented starting in 2019.

This digital platform plays a pivotal role in implementing CORSIA by streamlining the calculation of offset and reduction values for carbon units used by national carriers. CORSIA provides a structured framework to minimise international aviation emissions while accounting for the unique circumstances and capabilities of each country. It requires national carriers and operators to offset any unavoidable carbon dioxide emissions—those not reducible through technological advancements, operational improvements, or the use of sustainable aviation fuel—using carbon market emission units.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, stated: "The UAE is fully committed to adhering to all global and international requirements to reduce the negative impact of international aviation emissions. Since ICAO’s first climate change resolution for the aviation sector in 2010, the UAE has supported ICAO’s efforts in this vital area and has continuously collaborated with ICAO member states to achieve all targets aimed at reducing international aviation emissions. A prime example is the recent adoption of the 'Dubai Framework for Aviation Fuel' in November 2023, with an ambitious goal of reducing international aviation emissions by 5% by 2030."

He added: "CORSIA is the only globally approved system for implementation. All fuel standards and future fuel developments fall under its framework. Today’s launch of the digital platform reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to leveraging digital solutions to enhance the sustainability and continuity of this ambitious system, both nationally and internationally under ICAO’s umbrella."

The launch of this digital platform marks a significant shift from traditional data submission processes that have been in place for the past four years. Previously, national carriers submitted data manually to GCAA representatives, a process that consumed considerable time and effort. Now automated, the platform ensures data confidentiality and ease of use for UAE carriers. It also significantly reduces review times and minimises human error.

Moreover, the digital platform serves as an important archival system and provides a comprehensive digital record of international emissions data. This will facilitate the development of future applications related to offsetting and reducing carbon emissions in aviation.

Using the 4R strategy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover), the project aims to minimise the environmental impact of airport operations and set a new standard for sustainable waste management in aviation. Focused on behavioural change, training and stakeholder engagement, the initiative seeks to set a new standard for sustainable waste management in the aviation industry.

Indore Airport is now poised to embrace ‘Zero Waste’ practices through the 4R approach – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover. The new waste processing plant will process the airport’s daily waste of 750 kgs on-site, significantly reducing landfill dependency.

The Zero Waste Project features a cutting-edge Wet Waste Processing Unit that transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This compost will be utilised to enhance the airport's landscaping. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF) will meticulously sort dry waste into 10 distinct categories for recycling. To foster a culture of sustainability, the project includes comprehensive waste segregation practices and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste disposal among passengers and staff.

The project is designed as a self-sustaining model. Income generated from compost and recycled materials will be utilised to fund the salaries of dedicated green workers from the third year onwards, ensuring the project's long-term viability.

Sunsip Irrigation Systems, a student startup from Archbishop Porter Girls High School in Ghana, has won the Boeing Sustainable Innovation Award at the 14th Junior Achievement (JA) Africa Company of the Year competition in Mauritius.

The Boeing award celebrates innovative business ideas that advance environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

The Ghanaian team of young women impressed judges with their solar-powered irrigation system, designed to address the inefficiencies of traditional, non-renewable energy-based irrigation methods.

Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, and Central Asia, commented: “It’s essential to engage and equip young people with the critical skills needed to develop solutions that help us build a more sustainable future. They are the leaders of tomorrow, and we are proud to support initiatives like JA Africa’s competition that benefit both local communities and the environment.”

The JA Africa Company of the Year competition has been running for 14 years as an impactful catalyst for empowering Africa’s youth through entrepreneurship. This year, the competition focused on sustainability and brought together 36 student entrepreneurs from nine African countries: Eswatini, Ghana, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Simi Nwogugu, president and CEO of Junior Achievement Africa, said: “Over the past four years, our partnership with Boeing has inspired over 5,000 young Africans to harness their potential and innovate for a sustainable future. This collaboration shows what is possible when we invest in the creativity and determination of Africa's youth, empowering them to lead the charge in building a better world for generations to come.'

In 2021, Boeing began supporting the Company of the Year and other JA Africa’s programs dedicated to sustainability, STEM, and entrepreneurship. Together, Boeing and JA Africa have implemented community initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Madagascar, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The two companies will focus initially on Jetex locations across the Middle East, where Joby plans to install its Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS), to support Joby operations that will connect Jetex passengers to a network of vertiports, offering efficient and sustainable travel across the region and between Emirates.

“At Jetex, sustainability is a key focus of our strategy, and our partnership with Joby represents an important step forward in achieving our vision of greener skies,” says Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex. “We are committed to driving innovation that reduces our industry’s environmental impact, and integrating Joby’s electric air taxis into our network allows us to deliver cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable travel experiences, starting in the UAE.”

In 2024, SAF production volumes reached 1 million tonnes (1.3 billion liters), double the 0.5 million tonnes (600 million liters) produced in 2023. SAF accounted for 0.3% of global jet fuel production and 11% of global renewable fuel.

This is significantly below previous estimates that projected SAF production in 2024 at 1.5 million tonnes (1.9 billion liters), as key SAF production facilities in the US have pushed back their production ramp up to the first half of 2025.

In 2025, SAF production is expected to reach 2.1 million tonnes (2.7 billion liters) or 0.7% of total jet fuel production and 13% of global renewable fuel capacity.

“SAF volumes are increasing, but disappointingly slowly. Governments are sending mixed signals to oil companies which continue to receive subsidies for their exploration and production of fossil oil and gas. And investors in new generation fuel producers seem to be waiting for guarantees of easy money before going full throttle. With airlines, the core of the value chain, earning just a 3.6% net margin, profitability expectations for SAF investors need to be slow and steady, not fast and furious. But make no mistake that airlines are eager to buy SAF and there is money to be made by investors and companies who see the long-term future of decarbonisation. Governments can accelerate progress by winding down fossil fuel production subsidies and replacing them with strategic production incentives and clear policies supporting a future built on renewable energies, including SAF,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general.

“The airline industry’s decarbonisation must be seen as part of the global energy transition, not compartmentalised as a transport issue. That’s because solving the energy transition challenge for aviation will also benefit the wider economy, as renewable fuel refineries will produce a broad range of fuels used by other industries, and only a minor share will be SAF, used by airlines. We need the whole world to produce as much renewable energy as possible for everybody. Airlines simply want to access their fair share of that output,” added Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s senior vice president sustainability and chief economist.

To reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, IATA analysis shows that between 3,000 to over 6,500 new renewable fuel plants will be needed. These will also produce renewable diesel and other fuels for other industries. The annual average capex needed to build the new facilities over the 30-year period is about $128 billion per year, in a best-case scenario. Importantly, this amount is significantly less than the estimated total sum of investments in the solar and wind energy markets at $280 billion per annum between 2004 and 2022.

“Governments must quickly deliver concrete policy incentives to rapidly accelerate renewable energy production. There is already a model to follow with the transition to wind and solar power. The good news is that the energy transition, which includes SAF, will need less than half the annual investments that realising wind and solar production at scale required. And a good portion of the needed funding could be realised by redirecting a portion of the retrograde subsidies that governments give to the fossil fuel industry,” said Walsh.

The 22nd edition of the Doha Forum was held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. The Forum welcomed world leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss innovative solutions and action-oriented recommendations for globally critical challenges, including security and technological advancements.

Al-Meer explored the impact of transformative investments, the navigation of complex geopolitical landscapes and seizing opportunities in emerging markets. Al-Meer shed light on one of his top priorities, Qatar Airways 2.0, which is focused on employee well-being and retention. He also discussed strategic partnerships from Africa to Australia, and the honour of being awarded the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2024 for the eighth time.

Al-Meer, said: "I was proud to represent Qatar Airways at this year’s Doha Forum."

"Our increasingly connected world has introduced unique challenges, but has also unearthed new opportunities for cross-cultural understanding, much to the benefit of the aviation industry. Qatar Airways has strong and strategic diplomatic ties across the world and is a key player on the global stage. The demand for our services has remained high during both peak and low travel seasons."

He continued: "With our partnerships in the emerging markets in Africa, the Americas, and India, we have built on our strengths of agility and commitment to sustainable growth to prove time and time again that Qatar Airways remains resilient, nimble, and responsive to change. These qualities are essential for growth in a multi-lateral environment."

"Owing to our new era of Qatar Airways 2.0, dedication to our workforce, and growing investments and partnerships, our airline serves as the optimal case study for thriving businesses in rapidly evolving landscapes."

Delivering a record profit of $1.7 billion in the previous financial year, Qatar Airways continues to invest in the latest technologies, most recently as the first global airline to introduce Starlink Wi-Fi across its fleet. The airline also acquired a 25 per cent stake in Southern Africa’s regional carrier, Airlink, and has been granted interim authorisation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to engage with Virgin Australia in co-operative conduct under an integrated alliance, following Qatar Airways Group’s announcement in October that it intends to acquire a minority 25 per cent equity stake in Virgin Australia from Bain Capital (subject to FIRB approval), as part of its dedication to global connectivity.

The programme aims to reduce bird strikes by 40% through strategic waste management and underscores the airline's commitment to ensuring "Safety in the Skies" while supporting local communities and ecosystems.

Bird strikes present a significant global aviation challenge, causing approximately $1.2 billion in damages annually, with up to 90% occurring near airports during takeoff and landing phases. Entebbe International Airport, situated near the biodiverse Mabamba Bay wetlands, has experienced 21 bird strikes as of June 2024, many involving Spur-winged geese attracted by improperly managed fish waste along Lake Victoria's shores.

The Flight Path Sustainability Project aims to address this issue by reducing bird activity near flight paths, improving waste management practices, and fostering sustainability within surrounding communities.

The project seeks to:

·       Reduce Bird Strikes: Achieve a 40% decrease in bird concentrations around Entebbe International Airport through strategic waste management solutions.

·       Environmental Conservation: Protect Mabamba Bay, a critical ecosystem for diverse bird species, while maintaining ecological balance.

·       Sustainability: Promote sustainable waste practices to create a cleaner and safer environment for aviation operations and local residents.

·       Community Support: Empower women fish traders in Kigungu by enhancing hygiene and encouraging innovative recycling solutions.

Kigungu Central, a key area within Entebbe Municipality, generates substantial waste due to its active fishing industry, processing 4–5 tonnes of fish daily. Despite the local fish processing plant's compliance with waste disposal standards, challenges such as plastic pollution and improper waste practices persist. The project aims to transform waste management in Kigungu by inspiring behavior change, fostering recycling, and introducing innovative waste repurposing solutions, such as converting fish scales into industrial raw materials.

The Flight Path Sustainability Project is expected to deliver transformative benefits, including cleaner shores along Lake Victoria through eco-friendly waste disposal practices, improved sanitation and quality of life for over 2,000 residents, particularly women fish traders, enhanced aviation safety through reduced bird activity near flight paths, and increased awareness and strengthened partnerships among stakeholders to support sustainable development.

Uganda Airlines CEO Mrs. Jenifer Bamuturaki said: "Today marks a significant milestone for Uganda Airlines as we reaffirm our commitment to aviation safety and environmental stewardship. The Flight Path Sustainability Project goes beyond safety, addressing environmental conservation, sustainability, and community support in a holistic way."

Shakila Rahim Lamar, Head of PR and Communications at Uganda Airlines, said: "Public awareness and collaboration are at the heart of this initiative. By tackling waste management challenges in Kigungu and inspiring sustainable practices, we are setting an example for the aviation industry and supporting community well-being."

Rulinda Fabrice, Mayor of Entebbe Municipality, added: "This initiative provides an opportunity to transform waste management in our Municipality, improve the quality of life for residents, and protect our local ecosystem. It is a vital partnership for the safety of our skies and the sustainability of our community."

This resulted in a carbon intensity of 475 grams of CO₂ per Revenue Tonne Kilometer (RTK) for passengers.

Etihad's strategy aims to reduce emissions through industry-specific actions, adhere to voluntary roadmaps and frameworks, collaborate with UAE's industrial partners, maintain transparency and proactivity on environmental issues, and continuously update its strategic targets.

Etihad’s chief executive officer, Antonoaldo Neves, said: "We remain focused on a strategy that supports change, growth, and economic development. We believe that sustainable aviation development is achieved through many small efforts combined. Our comprehensive and coordinated approach aims to decarbonise aviation and mitigate its negative impacts.

“Rapidly phasing out fossil fuels in aviation is extremely challenging and requires a complete industry redesign. This transformation will occur gradually over time. With air travel expected to continue growing, we are committed to balancing carbon reduction with commercial demand to meet future needs responsibly.”

Highlights from the 2023 report:

•           Fuel Efficiency:

•           The Fuel Efficiency Working Group achieved a reduction of over 35,000 tonnes of CO₂ through optimised planning, which is equivalent to saving over 11,000 tonnes of fuel.

•           More than 1,000 passengers participated in the CarbonClick initiative, collectively offsetting over 1.5 million kilograms of CO₂.

•           There was a 45.3% improvement in passenger carbon intensity compared to 2019, resulting in a carbon intensity of 475 grams of CO₂ per Revenue Tonne Kilometre (RTK) for passengers.

•           The Boeing Jeppesen FliteDeck Advisor contributed to saving 8,389 tonnes of CO₂ and 2,655 tonnes of fuel.

•           Cost Efficiency:

•           The airline achieved an 8% reduction in cost per Available Seat Kilometre, coupled with an 11% improvement in fleet utilisation, reflecting a streamlined and efficient business model.

•           Sustainability Efforts:

•           The introduction of Economy Evolution led to the removal of over 233 million single-use plastic items from onboard service.

•           The airline planted 182,000 mangrove trees as part of the Etihad Mangrove Forest project.

•           Some 36% of onboard products are now sourced locally.

•           The implementation of the new Dry Wash method for aircraft resulted in 277 washes, saving 3,500 litres of water per narrowbody aircraft wash and 5,500 litres per widebody aircraft wash.

•           Responsible Growth:

•           Etihad demonstrated its commitment to responsible growth through continuous improvements in carbon intensity and fleet transformation efforts.

•           Modern Fleet:

•           The airline's modern and fuel-efficient fleet underscores its dedication to delivering exceptional service while enhancing environmental performance.

•           The average age of the fleet is 7.5 years.

•           Environmental Recognition:

•           The airline maintained a Stage 2 rating in the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Environmental Assessment Programme, reflecting its commitment to environmental excellence across all business functions.

The programme builds on the investment alongside Global Logistics Partner, DHL and creates a broader framework for Formula 1 teams and the FIA to participate. In total, the combined investment in the two programmes in 2024 will reduce related emissions by more than 8,000 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent). This is an approximate 19% reduction in related emissions, compared to traditional aviation fuel, for the air freight charter programme operated by Formula 1 across the flyaway events of the 2024 season.

The investment in SAF is a key part of Formula 1’s ultra-efficient logistics strategy and will be significant in keeping the sport on track to meet its Net Zero by 2030 commitment, which requires at least a 50% reduction in emissions, vs the 2018 baseline.

The agreement also sees Formula 1 become the inaugural member of Qatar Airways’ SAF programme as the eight- time Airline of the Year enters the next phase of its sustainability journey. This programme is a major milestone for Qatar Airways as it enables its partners like Formula 1 to leverage the benefits of SAF for the first time and puts the airline and its stakeholders on the path to advance the use of SAF at commercial scale. In 2024, the Qatar Airways Group completed an additional purchase of SAF for use in its fleet, which has resulted in reduction of 19,000 tCO2e.

On the track, the cars will use 100% advanced sustainable fuel from 2026, with F2 and F3 reaching this standard by next season, having been at 55% since the start of 2023. The FIA Safety and Medical cars also currently use 40% advanced sustainable fuel.

Off-track, European Grands Prix have been delivered alongside DHL, using biofuel-powered trucks since 2023 and starting next season, key operational areas at all European Grands Prix, such as the Pit Lane and Paddock, will be powered by a lower-carbon solution provided by Aggreko, reducing emissions in these areas by more than 90%. Globally events across the calendar continue to increase the use of alternative energy solutions, such as biofuels, green tariffs, and on-site renewables in their operations.

Ellen Jones, Head of ESG, Formula 1 said: “Today’s investment is the next step in our alternative fuels strategy which is central to delivering our Net Zero 2030 target. Through collaboration with our Teams, the FIA and our partners, we are delivering on our promises to drive down the sports’ carbon emissions and drive forward technologies that can have an impact beyond Formula 1. This is the latest example of how stakeholders across the sport are aligned with our vision for a more sustainable F1, which we are thrilled to see.”

This initiative comes as part of Etihad Cargo’s commitment to promoting local products, strengthening the UAE's industrial sector and enhancing its competitiveness in international markets.

Under the extended MoU, Etihad Cargo will continue to offer a 25 per cent discount on air cargo tariffs to ICV-certified companies. As a result, more UAE-based companies will be able to scale their operations across the UAE and access more international markets. Building on the original agreement signed in 2021, the partnership highlights Etihad Cargo's significant role in driving the UAE's ambitious efforts to boost in-country value and empower local manufacturers.

Promoting Competitiveness

Omar Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of MoIAT Al Suwaidi said: “The extended MoU is aligned with the Ministry’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology (Operation 300bn), aimed at diversifying the national economy and enhancing the UAE’s industrial sector competitiveness. The National ICV Programme serves as a key pillar in empowering this sector and boosting the resilience and sustainability of supply chains. Moreover, extending the agreement will enhance the export capabilities of local companies.

“Leading national companies, such as Etihad Airways, always strive to support the UAE's drive towards sustainable industrial and economic development. Etihad Airways is a strategic partner of MoIAT and was one of the first companies to join the National ICV Program in 2021. It also prioritises local suppliers and industrial companies in its procurement business. 

“The UAE has set a clear vision to elevate the national business environment and foster a competitive economy. Therefore, the MoU underscores the important role of national entities in supporting local products and steering larger demand towards local procurement,” HE Al Suwaidi added. 

Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo said: “Etihad Cargo remains committed to fostering a supportive environment for local manufacturers and companies. It delivers bespoke logistics solutions that align with the UAE’s In-Country Value goals. This collaboration offers the UAE's industrial and service companies the opportunity to expand into more international markets. Therefore, it aligns with Etihad Cargo's commitment to advancing the targets of Operation 300bn along with Abu Dhabi’s vision of economic diversification and long-term sustainability.”