EPA ruling on aircraft emissions paves way for new regulations

(The Guardian, 26 Jul 2016) US agency’s declaration that jet engine exhaust endangers public health represents key milestone, reports Climate Central.

The Environmental Protection Agency on Monday declared that jet engine exhaust endangers public health by contributing to climate change, a key milestone as it works to develop regulations that will cut carbon emissions from commercial aircraft.

Large commercial jets account for 11% of all emissions from the global transportation sector. Aircraft emissions are expected to grow by 50% by 2050 as demand for air travel increases.

Regulating aircraft emissions is part of the Obama administration’s goal under the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by up to 28% below 2005 levels by 2025. The international pact aims to to keep global warming from exceeding 2°C (3.6°F).

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The Guardian, 26 Jul 2016: EPA ruling on aircraft emissions paves way for new regulations