The European Commission is scaling back its aviation emissions plan and considering a two-year grace period, until 2013, for foreign airlines before they’re required to participate in its carbon reduction scheme, EUobserver reports (via Business Week). Intra-European flights will be covered by the scheme from the beginning of 2011.
The move could placate the U.S. which has raised the prospect of legal action.
The draft proposal says that airlines will be able to buy pollution allowances “from other sectors in the [EU] community scheme for use to cover their emissions.” The scheme is also to cover Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein - the three members of the European Economic Area.
Environmental groups have suggested that the costs of the scheme will be felt only by consumers. The airline industry favors the scheme over direct taxes.
EBAY'S WATER CONSERVATION PROGRAM PAYS FOR ITSELF
eBay saves water and energy with a program that'll achieve ROI within 18 months. How much could you save? Go to calculator>>
CLEAN ENERGY DOESN'T GET ANY COOLER THAN THIS
Hybrid Cooling Solutions from Ice Energy. There's no cooler way to improve your bottom line. Discover the power of Ice. >>
FINALLY! NEXT-GENERATION CARBON MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE FOR BUSINESSES
Clear Standards environmental intelligence software helps businesses measure, analyze, and reduce their carbon footprint. No more spreadsheets! >>
The other day while out shopping for Energy Star rated household appliances with my wife, I got to wondering why we ... continue »
The EU cap-and-trade system has operated well and has had little or no negative impact on the overall EU economy, according to ...
click to view full size chart »
Political and business leaders are warning that Britain faces a sharp rise in its tax bill to fund the country's move to ...
Join the Discussion