The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a methodology to track progress towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The methodology, developed with industry experts, outlines key metrics to track carbon emissions intensity and identifies three key emissions and reduction sources: convention jet fuel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with carbon offsets and carbon capture, and emissions related to future power sources.

The methodology also provides best practices for data collection and validation. IATA plans to publish an annual report called ‘Track Zero’ based on inputs from member airlines. The report aims to provide transparency and help airlines, governments, and investors make informed decisions to accelerate progress towards decarbonization. Non-IATA member airlines are also encouraged to contribute data and participate in the reporting.

The Net Zero Tracking Methodology has identified three key emissions and reduction sources: convention jet fuel and related emissions, reductions from the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) together with carbon offsets and carbon capture, and emissions related to future power sources such as electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft. The methodology also provides best practices for data collection and validation.

To ensure accurate reporting and monitor progress at an industry level, IATA plans to publish an annual report called the “Track Zero” report. This report will aggregate yearly inputs from member airlines based on the Net Zero Tracking Methodology. The report will be published in the fourth quarter of each year following thorough validation of industry data from the previous calendar year.

IATA’s 300-plus member airlines have already approved a resolution to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The development of the tracking methodology aims to establish a transparent framework for accurate reporting and to help monitor progress towards this goal.

Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s senior vice president sustainability and chief economist, emphasized the importance of transparency in aviation’s decarbonization efforts. She stated, “We will report our progress annually to ensure standardized, accurate, and comprehensive reporting of aviation’s journey to net zero. Industry-level data in the Track Zero report will help airlines, governments, and investors with tools to improve decision-making to accelerate progress.”

In addition to tracking progress, the Track Zero report will also allow airlines to benchmark their own decarbonization efforts using the aggregate data provided. Non-IATA member airlines are also encouraged to contribute data and participate in the reporting process.

Owens Thomsen highlighted that decarbonization is an industry challenge and not a competitive issue. She believes that the report and the methodology behind it can enable benchmarking, which could intensify decarbonization efforts by spreading the success of best practices and sparking innovation.

The release of the Net Zero Tracking Methodology and the upcoming Track Zero report demonstrate IATA’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. By providing a standardized framework for reporting and monitoring progress, the aviation industry can work together towards a more sustainable future.