Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions  -  March 23, 2022

Ryanair Sets 2050 Goals

Ryanair announced its decarbonization strategy of achieving net carbon zero by 2050. The airline will reach the goal through these steps:

• 34% decarbonization through the increased use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)
• 32% decarbonization through technological and operational improvements
• 24% decarbonization through offsetting and other economic measures
• 10% decarbonization through the introduction of better Air Traffic Management

With more than one-third of its decarbonization coming from the increased use of SAF, Ryanair is working with the EU and fuel suppliers to accelerate supply of SAF. The airline established the Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Centre in partnership with Trinity College Dublin. This partnership will deliver research in SAF, Zero Carbon Aircraft Propulsion Systems, and Noise Mapping.

The final part of Ryanair’s “Pathway to Net Zero” will come from a combination of offsetting measures, through carbon capture offset projects and the support of key government policies and reforms, such as the introduction of the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) initiative. If successfully introduced by the European Commission, the SESAR would deliver a standardized and more efficient air traffic management process, delivering a significant & immediate 10% reduction in European aviation carbon emissions.

“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,” said Ryanair’s Director of Sustainability, Thomas Fowler in a statement. “We are working tirelessly with our team and strategic partners to lead the way in making aviation more sustainable. We were delighted to be upgraded to a ‘B’ rating by the CDP this year, recognising our commitment to reducing our environmental impact. While we’ve already come a long way, we will continue to lead the sustainable aviation agenda in European aviation as we embark on our ambitious Pathway to Net Zero by 2050.”