Expansion of airports put climate targets at risk, MPs say
Summary
A report by the UK's Environmental Audit Committee warns that expanding airports could interfere with the UK's climate goals. Despite this, the government has approved more runways at Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The expansions may lead to many more flights, raising concerns about meeting environmental targets.Key Facts
- The UK plans to expand Heathrow and Gatwick airports with new runways.
- A new runway at Gatwick could add 100,000 flights a year, and a third runway at Heathrow could add 276,000 flights annually.
- The Environmental Audit Committee believes this could harm the UK's net zero climate goals unless decarbonization efforts in aviation accelerate.
- The UK has legally binding targets to cut emissions and contribute to global climate goals.
- The Department for Transport stated that airport expansion will only proceed if it aligns with climate obligations.
- The UK government is expected to choose between two proposals for Heathrow expansion soon.
- Technological solutions like sustainable aviation fuel are not yet widely used to help reduce emissions from flying.
- Critics argue the government hasn't provided evidence that airport expansion will benefit the economy.
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