15 Jan 2008 05:01:26
BA re-launches carbon offsetting initiative
British Airways has today (January 15th) unveiled an "upgraded" version of its carbon offset scheme.
The carrier will use its scheme to help fund clean energy programmes in various developing countries using UN-certified emissions reductions.
BA also unveiled backing for research into the effects of aircraft's non-carbon emissions, as well as deforestation prevention in Brazil.
Customers wishing to offset their emissions will be able to do so in a single transaction when they book flights via the airline's website. Previously this had to be done in a separate transaction.
Silla Maizey, head of corporate responsibility for BA, commented: "We were the first airline to offer carbon offsets, and we intend to remain at the forefront in this area.
"We need a broad response to climate change: controlling our emissions with cleaner aircraft, the inclusion of aviation in emissions trading and the setting of tough international emissions targets."
Those customers who offset their emissions will help to support run-of-the-river hydro electric plants in China and Brazil, as well as a new windfarm in one of China's poorest areas.
