Meeting the Challenge of Sustainable Aviation

( London, 8 May 2006 ) The UK aerospace industry is committed to meeting the challenges of sustainable aviation, senior industry executive were told today (8 May 2006). The industry has delivered a 50 per cent improvement in aircraft fuel efficiency and 75 per cent reduction in noise nuisance in the last 30 years and had set ambitious targets for further improvement.

Speaking at an SBAC Environment Road Show held at Rolls-Royce, Derby, Paul Everitt, SBAC Communication Director, said ‘’The UK aerospace industry recognises its environmental responsibilities and is committed to delivering products and processes that minimise environmental impact. Aircraft manufacturers and suppliers are committed to improving fuel efficiency by 50 per cent per seat kilometre, reducing NOx emissions by 80 per cent and reducing perceived noise by 50 per cent (for new aircraft) by 2020, relative to their equivalents in 2000.’’


Minimising the environmental impact of aerospace manufacturing is a high priority for the industry. SBAC data shows 91 per cent of companies now consider environmental issues in product design, 73 per cent of companies regularly monitor and implement waste minimisation procedures and 70 per cent of companies provide training for new employees on environmental matters.

Paul Everitt said, ‘‘more and more companies now recognise the value of environmental best practice and are seeing the benefit in reduced waste and improved energy efficiency. SBAC is committed to promoting sustainable production in the aerospace industry and ensuring that all companies have the tools they need to achieve the best results.’’

The Aerospace Environmental Road Show is being held at Rolls-Royce’s Moor Lane facility in Derby. It includes presentations on the introduction of environmental management systems, energy management and eco-design. The road show also includes updates on future environmental legislation and the potential implications of the proposed European Commission’s chemical regulations – REACH.

Aerospace manufacturers and suppliers helped launch the world’s first sustainability strategy for the aviation sector in 2005 . The strategy marked an historic development, with all sectors of the UK aviation industry working together to produce a long-term strategy that balances the needs of the environment with economic growth and social responsibilities.

Source : SBAC