Delta Air Lines is committing US$1 billion over the next 10 years to embark on efforts to mitigate all emissions from its global business going forward.
In a statement, the airline said it will invest in driving innovation, advancing clean air travel technologies, accelerating the reduction of carbon emissions and waste, and establishing new projects to mitigate the balance of emissions.
“There is no substitute for the power that travel has to connect people, which our world needs today more than ever before. As we connect customers around the globe, it is our responsibility to deliver on our promise to bring people together and ensure the utmost care for our environment,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s CEO.
“The time is now to accelerate our investments and establish an ambitious commitment that the entire Delta team will deliver.”
The aviation industry accounts for roughly 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Delta said its carbon footprint is its largest environmental impact, with 98% of emissions coming from its aircraft.
Fleet renewal, use of sustainable fuels
Delta's efforts to become carbon neutral include carbon reduction where the airline aim to reducing its carbon footprint through enterprise-wide efforts to decrease the use of jet fuel and increase efficiency.
"Areas of focus include an ambitious fleet renewal program, improved flight operations, weight reduction, and increased development and use of sustainable aviation fuels," Delta said.
The airline will also invest in innovative projects and technology to remove carbon emissions from the atmosphere that go beyond the airline’s current commitments, and investigating carbon removal opportunities through forestry, wetland restoration, grassland conservation, marine and soil capture, and other negative emissions technologies.
Delta said it is also looking forward to building coalitions with its employees, suppliers, global partners, customers, industry colleagues, investors and other stakeholders to advance carbon reduction and removal goals and maximize our global impact.
