Due to technological advancements, today's aircrafts are more efficient than those manufactured in the past. Nevertheless, the aviation industry is among the fastest growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions, which has given rise to environmental concerns over its global impact and effect on air quality, particularly at ground level. In an effort to tackle aviation's increasing contribution to climate change, international organisations – such as the United Nations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) – are taking steps to reduce global aviation emissions and develop measures with worldwide effect (for further details please see "Global action plan to reduce aircraft emissions"). This update examines Nigeria's action plan to contribute to these aims.
Action plan to reduce aircraft emissions
In 1977 the ICAO issued Circular 134 on the Control of Aircraft Engine Emissions. The circular contains guidance in the form of a certification procedure for the control of vented fuel, smoke and certain gaseous emissions for new turbojet and turbofan engines intended for propulsion. Notably, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority incorporated the ICAO standard and recommended practices (Annex 16, Volumes I and II)(1) in Part 16 of the Civil Aviation Regulation on Environmental Protection.
As a signatory of the Kyoto Protocol to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Nigeria must reduce its greenhouse gas emissions from both domestic and international aviation. To demonstrate its commitment to the global efforts to curb global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Nigeria has developed its State Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Aviation(2) to reduce aircraft emissions and implement the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
The government intends to explore regulatory measures to reduce its aircraft emissions.(3) However, the Nigerian aviation industry has yet to establish a concrete regulatory framework for CORSIA's effective implementation and the effective reduction of aircraft emissions.
Available options for reduction of aircraft emissions
The ICAO has recommended a range of options to reduce the impact of aviation emissions, including:
- the issuance of aircraft emissions regulations;
- the implementation of an aircraft emissions trading system;
- the introduction of voluntary agreements; and
- the promotion of research and development.
Notably, both the Kyoto Protocol and the ICAO have endorsed emissions trading as an effective way to reduce aircraft emissions.
In joining the global efforts to reduce aircraft emissions, Nigeria must fully implement its State Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Aviation by issuing and enforcing regulations. In addition, taking its cue from the European Union, an aircraft emissions trading system should be established to control total emissions and encourage the trading of emissions allowances which could serve as supplementary revenue for airlines. Further, trading brings flexibility that ensures emissions are cut where it costs less to do so. A robust carbon price will also promote investment in clean, low-carbon technologies.(4)
For further information please contact Akinola Ogunsakin at George Etomi & Partners by telephone (+234 1 462 1660) or email ([email protected]). The George Etomi & Partners website can be accessed at www.geplaw.com.
Endnotes
(1) Available here.
(2) Available here.
(3) State Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Aviation, page 29.
(4) Further information is available here.
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