Gatwick Expansion Sparks Climate Conundrum: Can UK Airports Grow and Meet Emissions Targets?

Gatwick Second Runway: Can the UK Expand Airports and Still Hit Climate Targets? The British government has approved plans for a second runway at Gatwick Airport, a decision that could lead to an additional 100,000 flights per year. This move comes as part of a string of planned airport expansions in the UK, including a potential third runway at Heathrow, which would add another 276,000 flights annually. According to the UK Climate Change Committee (UKCCC), such large-scale expansions will require significant reductions in aircraft emissions to meet the country's target of becoming net zero by 2050. "The aviation sector is one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions," said Lord Deben, chair of the UKCCC. "We need to see a major reduction in emissions from flying if we are to meet our climate targets." Replacing old aircraft with newer models can help reduce emissions, as seen with the current-generation Airbus A320neo, which is 15-20% more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. However, this alone will not be enough to mitigate the impact of increased air travel. The UKCCC has warned that emissions from flying are expected to increase by 60% by 2050 if no action is taken. To put this into perspective, a single return flight from London to New York generates around 1 tonne of CO2 equivalent emissions. In addition to Gatwick and Heathrow, Luton Airport's expansion plans have also been approved, potentially adding tens of thousands more flights per year. The UK government has stated its support for these expansions, citing economic benefits and job creation. However, environmental groups have expressed concerns about the impact on climate targets. "The government is prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term climate goals," said a spokesperson for Friends of the Earth. "We need to see a fundamental shift in how we approach aviation expansion." The UKCCC has called for a range of measures to reduce emissions from flying, including improved air traffic management, more efficient aircraft design, and increased use of sustainable fuels. As the UK continues to debate its airport expansion plans, experts warn that the clock is ticking. "We need to act now to ensure that our aviation sector is aligned with our climate goals," said Lord Deben. The next steps for Gatwick's second runway will be determined by a public inquiry, which is expected to take place later this year. The outcome of this inquiry will have significant implications for the UK's ability to meet its climate targets. Background: The UK government has set a target of becoming net zero by 2050, and the aviation sector is seen as a key area for reducing emissions. The UKCCC has warned that without action, emissions from flying could increase by 60% by 2050. Additional Perspectives: "We need to see a fundamental shift in how we approach aviation expansion," said a spokesperson for Friends of the Earth. "The government is prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term climate goals," added the spokesperson. Current Status and Next Developments: The public inquiry into Gatwick's second runway is expected to take place later this year. The outcome will have significant implications for the UK's ability to meet its climate targets. *Reporting by Bbc.*