EU Commission Proposes Carbon Footprint Labels for Flights
The European Commission announced today the launch of a consultation on a new proposed EU Flight Emissions Label (FEL), an initiative which aims to provide passengers with information about their flight’s carbon footprint.
The FEL forms part of the EU’s RefeulEU Aviation regulations, adopted last year and aimed at decarbonizing aviation.
In addition, much of the information currently available is not standardized, as airlines that do provide emissions data often use different methodologies and technologies for measuring carbon. Indeed, several airlines have been accused or charged with greenwashing over unclear or misleading claims on emissions and environmental impact in recent months. The FEL provides for a single standard, and regulated methodology when estimating flight emissions. The FEL will include factors such as aircraft type, average passenger numbers and freight volume on board, as well as aviation fuel used.
As of 2025, airlines operating flights within the EU or departing from the EU will be able to voluntarily join this FEL initiative. When booking flights online, a FEL logo will be displayed alongside the flight emissions data, helping passengers make informed decisions and protect them from inaccurate emission claims. Also, a website will be created allowing the public to compare emission levels from different airlines competing on the same route, as well as view a ranking of those flight companies with the lowest emissions per route.
Wopke Hoekstra, the EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Transport, said:
“Clear, verified information is fundamental to better inform our choices for travel. As passengers, the future EU Flight Emissions Label will make it easier for all of us to have verified information regarding the CO2 emissions linked to our flights before we purchase our tickets. It will also ensure a level playing field among airlines competing on the same routes, and reward those that choose to invest in cleaner fuels and more efficient operations by making this visible to passengers when they buy a ticket. The future label will therefore help incentivize airlines to improve their environmental performance, by renewing their fleet with more efficient aircraft and using more sustainable aviation fuels.”
Residents of EU countries will be able to provide their feedback on the initiative via a Public Consultation set up by the Commission.
Source: esgtoday.com
