Global tourism leaders urge nations to join historic aviation carbon scheme

The Global Travel Association Coalition (GTAC) has welcomed the adoption of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and urges all nations to join this historic effort of the sector to combat carbon emissions.

CORSIA, which creates a global market-based mechanism for carbon emissions from aviation, was adopted in Montreal at the 39th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on 6th October 2016.

GTAC applauds those involved for reaching this landmark agreement, a first market-based measure governing an entire industry sector at the global level, and encourages all States to join CORSIA from the beginning to curb aviation’s contribution to climate change.

Speaking on behalf of GTAC,  World Travel & Tourism Council President (WTTC)  President and Chief Executive David Scowsill stated “CORSIA is an historic agreement for aviation and a major step towards the sustainable growth of the whole travel and tourism sector.

“On behalf of the GTAC members I would like to congratulate all the members of ICAO for coming to this momentous agreement.”

“As global travel and tourism leaders we encourage all States to follow the lead of the 65 countries who have already indicated to participate in the pilot by 2021, representing over 80% of aviation activity.

“By agreeing to CORSIA, we highlight the importance of public and private sector cooperation in achieving the goal of safe and environmentally sustainable air travel and our commitment to a more sustainable future and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Globally the tourism industry supports almost 10% of global GDP and one in 11 of all jobs when direct, indirect and induced benefits are taken into account.

Members of the Global Travel Association Coalition (GTAC) are:

Airports Council International (ACI)
Cruise Lines Association International (CLIA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)
World Economic Forum (WEF)
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

GTAC exists to promote a better understanding of tourism’s role as a driver of economic growth and employment, and to ensure governments develop policies which contribute to the profitable, sustainable and long-term growth of the industry.

Under its goal to provide a stronger consolidated ‘One Voice’, the leaders of GTAC continue to align their messaging and efforts in order to amplify awareness of the viability of the tourism sector. An Agenda for Growth and Development was launched in April, 2015 consolidating the common efforts to be followed by all. 

Image: Jetstar marks its first flight from Melbourne to Sunshine Coast.

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