Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)

Definition

CORSIA is a global market-based measure designed to offset carbon emissions from international aviation by requiring airlines to purchase carbon credits to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions. This scheme aims to stabilize net CO2 emissions from international flights at 2020 levels and serves as an integral part of regulatory frameworks and environmental policies focused on mitigating climate change impacts in the aviation sector.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CORSIA was adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2016 and aims to address the growing concern over aviation's contribution to climate change.
2. The scheme applies to international flights, with compliance starting in 2021 and expanding progressively as airlines report their emissions.
3. Participating countries can either voluntarily join CORSIA or comply with its requirements after 2027, depending on their national circumstances.
4. Airlines can meet their offsetting obligations through various mechanisms, including purchasing carbon credits from approved projects that reduce or remove emissions elsewhere.
5. CORSIA is part of a broader global strategy to achieve net-zero emissions from international aviation by 2050.

Review Questions

• How does CORSIA contribute to the regulation of carbon emissions in international aviation?
  • CORSIA plays a crucial role in regulating carbon emissions by mandating airlines to offset their greenhouse gas output through the purchase of carbon credits. This approach helps create a financial incentive for airlines to invest in emission-reducing technologies and practices. By stabilizing net CO2 emissions at 2020 levels, CORSIA aims to ensure that growth in air travel does not lead to increased environmental harm.
• Discuss the implications of CORSIA's implementation on global cooperation regarding climate change.
  • CORSIA's implementation signals a significant step towards global cooperation in addressing climate change within the aviation sector. By requiring international collaboration and commitment from countries, it fosters a shared responsibility for reducing emissions. This cooperative approach can help align national policies with international climate goals, promoting innovation and investment in sustainable practices across the aviation industry.
• Evaluate the potential challenges and criticisms associated with CORSIA's approach to carbon offsetting.
  • While CORSIA presents an innovative solution for addressing emissions in international aviation, it faces several challenges and criticisms. One concern is the effectiveness of carbon offsetting itself, as critics argue that it may allow airlines to avoid making meaningful changes to reduce their own emissions directly. Additionally, there are questions about the integrity and transparency of carbon credit projects, which can vary widely in effectiveness. Balancing compliance costs for airlines while achieving substantial environmental benefits remains a significant hurdle for CORSIA's long-term success.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming, with CO2 being one of the most significant from aviation.

Carbon Credits: Permits that allow the holder to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases, facilitating a market for emissions trading.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Fuel produced from sustainable resources intended to reduce the carbon footprint of aviation operations.