The UK government’s Climate Change Committee (CCC) has indicated that it has not yet been formally requested to evaluate the potential carbon emissions impacts of plans to expand Heathrow Airport, which include the construction of a third runway. The CCC stated that it would be willing to provide an assessment if approached by the government. Currently, the government maintains that any expansion must comply with the legally binding target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The CCC’s involvement is underpinned by its statutory responsibility to ensure the UK meets its climate targets, and it has consistently expressed caution regarding airport expansions. The government is currently examining initial proposals for Heathrow’s expansion and intends to consult with the committee during this evaluative process. However, it is not legally obliged to follow the CCC’s recommendations.
Lord Deben, a former chairman of the CCC, emphasized the limited potential for growth in aviation without a corresponding reduction in emissions. He noted that granting planning permission for Heathrow’s expansion could limit opportunities for other airports in the UK. Environmental group Greenpeace UK has called for the CCC’s independent experts to assess the broader risks and costs associated with such expansions.
The CCC also reported that it has not been consulted regarding any potential expansion of Gatwick Airport, where a decision on a proposed second runway is expected soon. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced support for the Heathrow expansion in January, framing it as beneficial for the UK economy despite environmental concerns.
The CCC’s recent advice on aviation emissions, noted in the Seventh Carbon Budget published in February, suggested that reaching net zero could be possible through sustainable aviation fuel and the development of electric planes. Nonetheless, it warned that the advancement of low-carbon technologies remains uncertain and advised limiting airport growth to manage emissions effectively. The UK government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that any expansion aligns with legal and environmental obligations.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0jq43yjx35o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss