August 21, 2024
Air Freight
As global commerce continues to expand, the demand for efficient and rapid transportation of goods has never been greater. Air freight plays a crucial role in meeting these demands, offering unparalleled speed and reliability. However, the environmental impact of air cargo cannot be overlooked. With growing concerns over climate change, industries are under pressure to adopt more sustainable practices and the question of sustainability in air freight is becoming increasingly important.
This article delves into the sustainability of air freight, comparing it with other transportation methods, examining its carbon emissions, and exploring the future of sustainable air cargo.
How does air freight impact the environment?
Air freight is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions; according to the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), the air transport sector generated 9% of global transport CO2 emissions in 2020. This figure is projected to rise as demand for air cargo continues to grow.
The high energy consumption required for aircraft operations (along with the emission of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), contrails, and particulates) exacerbates its environmental footprint. These emissions contribute to global warming and can adversely affect air quality, posing a challenge for sustainability efforts in the logistics sector.
Here’s a breakdown of the environmental concerns associated with air freight:
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: CO2 emissions from aircrafts trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Additionally, NOx emissions at high altitudes can also have a warming effect.
- Noise Pollution: Aircrafts generate significant noise pollution, impacting communities near airports and on flight paths.
- Air Quality: Aircraft emissions can contribute to local air quality issues, particularly near airports.
How sustainable is air freight compared to other forms of transit?
When comparing the sustainability of air freight with other transportation methods, the differences are stark. When considering air freight vs sea freight carbon footprint, sea freight is generally considered more environmentally friendly due to its lower carbon footprint per ton-kilometre transported. According to the International Maritime Organization, shipping by sea accounts for about 2.2% of global CO2 emissions, which is significantly lower than that of air freight.
Rail and road transport also offer varying degrees of sustainability. Rail freight is particularly efficient in terms of energy consumption and CO2 emissions, making it a preferable option for long-distance land transport. Road freight, while more flexible and widely used, emits more CO2 than rail but still less than air freight on a per ton-kilometre basis.
So, while air freight is the fastest method of transporting goods, it often comes at the expense of environmental sustainability.
Understanding carbon emissions from air freight
The carbon emissions from air freight are influenced by several factors, including aircraft type, fuel efficiency, flight distance, and load factor. Modern aircrafts are more fuel-efficient than older models, and improvements in aerodynamics, engine technology, and lightweight materials contribute to reduced emissions. However, the overall impact remains substantial.
For example, transporting goods by air can emit up to 500 grams of CO2 per ton-kilometre, compared to approximately 10-40 grams for sea freight. This significant difference underscores the need for innovative solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of air freight.
- Fuel Burn: The primary source of emissions is the burning of jet fuel, which releases CO2 and other pollutants.
- Aircraft Type: Older, less fuel-efficient aircraft contribute disproportionately to emissions.
- Flight Path: The distance travelled, altitude, and weather conditions can all impact fuel consumption and emissions.
- Ground Operations: Taxiing, take-off, and landing contribute to overall fuel use and emissions.
How can air freight be more sustainable?
Achieving sustainability in air freight requires a multi-faceted approach. Key strategies include:
Adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs):
SAFs can reduce life cycle CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels. These biofuels are derived from renewable sources such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and non-food crops, providing a more sustainable alternative. While SAFs are currently more expensive, increased production and government incentives are expected to make them more accessible in the future.
Enhancing fuel efficiency
Continued investment in fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, which consume less fuel per ton-kilometre, can significantly cut emissions.
Optimising flight operations
Implementing more efficient flight paths, optimising speed, and improving air traffic management can reduce fuel burn and emissions. Optimising flight paths and improving ground handling procedures can all contribute to reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
Carbon offsetting
Airlines and logistics companies can also invest in carbon offset initiatives that support reforestation, renewable energy projects, and other initiatives that compensate for the emissions generated by air freight.
To take advantage of our bespoke customer offset programme, talk to one of our logistics experts today!
Infrastructure improvements
Upgrading airport infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce ground delays can contribute to lower overall emissions. Implementing more precise Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) allows for safer and more efficient landings in low-visibility conditions. This reduces the need for holding patterns and aborted landings, both of which contribute to unnecessary fuel consumption.
Sustainable practices in air freight: what is being done to reduce the impact of air freight?
The air freight industry is already taking several measures to mitigate its environmental impact:
IATA’s commitment to Net Zero: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This involves adopting SAFs, improving operational efficiency, and investing in new technologies.
Green airports: Many airports are already implementing sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources, enhancing waste management, and promoting electric ground support equipment.
Collaborative efforts: Airlines, manufacturers, and logistics companies are collaborating to develop and implement greener technologies and practices. For instance, Boeing and Airbus are researching electric and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, which could revolutionise air transport sustainability.
Digitalisation: Digital solutions like predictive maintenance, route optimisation software, and blockchain for supply chain transparency contribute to more efficient and sustainable air freight operations.
Aircrafts: Many airlines are currently investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, exploring SAFs, and implementing operational efficiency measures to reduce their environmental footprint.
Freight forwarders: Freight forwarders are partnering with airlines that offer sustainable options, and utilise carbon offsetting to mitigate the environmental impact of their shipments.
Regulatory bodies: International organisations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) are developing regulations to promote cleaner technologies and reduce emissions from the aviation sector
The sustainability of air freight is a complex issue, but significant progress is already being made. While air freight currently has a higher environmental impact compared to other modes of transport, the industry is actively seeking ways to reduce its carbon footprint. Through the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels, improved fuel efficiency, optimised flight operations, and robust carbon offsetting, air freight will become more sustainable.
Are you looking to utilise air freight in your logistics strategy? Partner with us to explore air freight solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you be mindful of your carbon footprint while maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your logistics operations. The future of air cargo is with AGI Global Logistics, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook for all of the latest air, road and sea freight news!