UN aviation body pushes back on transparency, influence concerns on sustainability talks

(Eco Business, 7 Oct 2022) UK-based non-profit InfluenceMap had issued a report indicating that global negotiations could be affected by corporate interests. Such talks are currently underway, and a 2050 net-zero target is on the table.

A United Nations body that oversees commercial air travel, has defended its structure and procedures following a report questioning its ability to lead on sustainability issues.

UK-based think-tank InfluenceMap had published a report that saidproceedings at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) are too opaque and have too many corporate representatives involved.

An ICAO meeting is currently taking place in Montreal, Canada, and negotiators are expected to discuss getting countries to commit to net-zero commercial aviation by 2050, up from the current target of halving emissions by then.

In response to queries, an ICAO spokesperson said decisions taken at its meetings are only made by countries, with observer groups, including industry players, providing technical expertise. Environmental and climate bodies within the United Nations are also observers, while ICAO has a “robust” reporting and investigation procedure regarding the neutrality of its secretariat staff, the spokesperson said.

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Eco Business, 7 Oct 2022: UN aviation body pushes back on transparency, influence concerns on sustainability talks