Research News: Effect of Global Aviation on Global Warming

November 5, 2020


What could we do to reduce the impact of aviation on the Earth’s climate?

Fly less! I've heard that business travel has decreased because of the pandemic, and people are doing video meetings instead. We could continue doing this.

-C. Feis

Are there new technologies? Maybe new fuels that would create less carbon dioxide?

-E. Hart

 

While all travel has some impact, some modes of travel are more damaging than others. So, first reduce travel. The pandemic has given lessons on that. Virtual meetings are both less environmentally damaging than face to face meetings and more accessible. Improving rail systems also has the potential to lower emissions substantially. And I love trains. -Don Haas

The technology for faster rail service is well understood and in place in many places around the world. We can copy that and improve upon it.

-Don Haas