IATA launches its methodology for accounting and reporting on emissions reductions associated with PBS
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published its methodology for the accounting and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by the airline industry.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published its methodology for the accounting and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by the airline industry.
SAF represents an essential element in the industry's strategy to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2050. Thanks to this method, the industry will be able to accurately, consistently and transparently quantify the aviation greenhouse gas emissions associated with the use of PBS, and thus ensure the contribution of sustainable fuels to the decarbonization of the sector.
The implementation of this IATA methodology for accounting and reporting emissions from UFTS is a critical step towards the creation of the IATA UFTS registry;IATA's SAF Registry, scheduled for launch in April 2025, is expected to play a key role in the creation of an efficient and effective global SAF market.
According to Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA senior vice president of sustainability and chief economist, “the transparency of a globally standardized methodology is essential to have a sound and fair record, avoiding double counting and enabling the creation of an efficient global UFAS market”.
HIGHLIGHTS
-Quantificationof emissions based on purchases, independent of the chain of custody and points of receipt of PBS, in line with the CORSIAapproach of ICAO.
Optional emission factors from direct fuel consumption —tank-to-wake (TTW)— or throughout the value chain —well-to-wake (WTW)—, in line with various regulatory and voluntary requirements.
-A consistent quantification approach that ensures regulatory and voluntary compliance.
-NOr additionality decisionsby the party reporting emissions associated with the use of PBS are prejudiced, provided there is no double counting. Additionality is one of the accounting principles that drive emissions reductions outside of what is required by regulation or what is considered business as usual activities.
-Guide to reducing PAS emissions on a per passenger and per shipment basis.
-Basic principles: Level playing field; prevention of double counting; integrity in environmental claims and reporting; transparent and verifiable data.
IATA's PAS emissions accounting and reporting methodology has been developed in collaboration with more than 40 airline experts from around the world. It is raw material independent and technology neutral. In addition, the methodology complements existing international regulatory frameworks and reinforces consistency without duplication of effort.