Ryanair has set a target to become carbon neutral by 2050 as part of its new Pathway to Net Zero decarbonisation strategy.
The Irish low-cost carrier plans to achieve 34% of decarbonisation by switching to sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and 32% by making technological and operational improvements.
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The company said that it is currently working with SAF suppliers and the European Union to increase the procurement of SAF.
As part of its initiative, the airline company has also partnered with Trinity College Dublin to establish a Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Centre.
Under the partnership, the two organisations will focus on SAF research and the development of Zero Carbon Aircraft Propulsion Systems and Noise Mapping.
Ryanair said it will invest in new technology and aircraft. It has also committed to acquiring 210 Boeing 737-8200 ‘Gamechanger’ aircraft with an investment of $22bn.
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By GlobalDataThe Irish carrier intends to achieve another 24% of its decarbonisation aims through offsetting and other economic measures, as well as the last 10% through improved Air Traffic Management activities.
Under its Pathway to Net Zero strategy, Ryanair will also focus on offsetting measures through carbon capture offset projects and support for key government policies and reforms, including the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) initiative.
SESAR is estimated to deliver an efficient air traffic management process and could lead to a 10% carbon reduction in the European aviation sector if it is successfully launched by the European Commission.
Through these initiatives, Ryanair intends to cut carbon emission levels, as well as the impact of its own operations on the environment.
Ryanair Sustainability director Thomas Fowler said: “As Europe’s greenest major airline, Ryanair understands that aviation plays a pivotal role in tackling climate change and our Pathway to Net Zero will help us do just that.”
