On June 15, 2025, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced a set of new sustainability guidelines aimed at drastically reducing the carbon footprint of the global aviation industry. The guidelines, which were unveiled at the IATA’s annual summit in London, are part of a broader effort by the airline industry to meet its environmental commitments and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The new sustainability framework includes a range of initiatives designed to promote the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), improve operational efficiency, and encourage the development of green technologies. One of the most significant aspects of the new guidelines is the push for greater investment in SAF, a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel, which has the potential to reduce aviation-related carbon emissions by up to 80%. The IATA’s guidelines encourage member airlines to commit to using SAF in their fleets, with a target of achieving 10% SAF usage by 2035.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh, who played a central role in the development of the guidelines, emphasized the importance of industry-wide cooperation to meet sustainability goals. “The aviation industry recognizes its responsibility to combat climate change, and these new guidelines are an essential step toward a greener future,” Walsh said. “By adopting sustainable fuel technologies and optimizing flight operations, we can significantly reduce emissions and ensure that aviation remains an environmentally responsible industry.”
The guidelines also include recommendations for reducing waste generated by the aviation industry, such as plastics and other non-recyclable materials used in inflight services. Additionally, airlines are encouraged to adopt fuel-efficient practices, such as optimizing flight paths, reducing weight, and using more efficient engines, which can further minimize the environmental impact of air travel.
Leading airline executives, including British Airways CEO Sean Doyle, expressed strong support for the new guidelines. “British Airways is fully committed to the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” Doyle said. “We are already investing in sustainable aviation fuel, and we’re committed to working with our industry partners to drive forward innovations that will help reduce aviation’s environmental footprint.”
Environmental groups, including Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), have largely welcomed the IATA’s new sustainability guidelines but have called for more ambitious targets and concrete actions. “The aviation industry’s environmental impact is significant, and while these guidelines are a step in the right direction, we need to see rapid implementation and stronger commitments to reducing emissions,” said Dr. Emma Egan, Director of WWF’s Climate Program.
The aviation industry has long been one of the largest sources of carbon emissions globally, with air travel accounting for nearly 3% of total global CO2 emissions. The new sustainability guidelines are part of a broader effort by governments and industries to address climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
While the transition to more sustainable aviation practices presents significant challenges, the industry’s commitment to these new guidelines reflects a growing recognition that environmental sustainability is crucial for the future of air travel. With increasing pressure from governments, regulators, and the public, the aviation sector is making significant strides toward reducing its environmental impact and contributing to global climate goals.
