The European Union (EU) has introduced substantial updates to its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions monitoring regulations, with a key focus on non-CO2 emissions from the aviation industry. The 2024 amendments to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2066 emphasize the importance of tracking and reporting non-CO2 emissions—such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), water vapor, and contrails—which contribute to climate change in ways that go beyond CO2 emissions alone.
As part of the EU’s broader strategy to reduce overall emissions and move toward climate neutrality by 2050, airlines operating within the European Economic Area (EEA) and participating in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) must comply with these new regulations by 2025. In this article, we break down what airlines need to know about the new EU rules on non-CO2 emissions and how VURDHAAN can provide the support needed to meet compliance.
Why Non-CO2 Emissions Matter for Airlines
Non-CO2 emissions, including NOx, water vapor, and contrails, contribute significantly to global warming. NOx emissions led to ozone formation, a potent greenhouse gas, while contrails and water vapor can trap heat in the atmosphere, amplifying the greenhouse effect. In fact, studies suggest that the warming impact of these non-CO2 emissions may be just as significant as, or even greater than, CO2 emissions alone.
The EU’s updated regulations reflect the growing recognition of these effects, ensuring that airlines are held accountable for the total environmental impact of their operations—not just CO2. At VURDHAAN, we specialize in helping airlines understand and mitigate the broader climate impact of their activities. Our comprehensive services are designed to provide airlines with tailored solutions for monitoring, reducing, and reporting non-CO2 emissions, thereby enabling them to comply with evolving regulations and improve their sustainability credentials.
Key Changes in the 2024 EU Regulations
The 2024 amendments introduce several changes that will affect how airlines report their emissions. Here’s a summary of the key updates, along with how VURDHAAN can support airlines in adapting to these changes:
1. CO2-Equivalent (CO2e) Reporting
Airlines are now required to report non-CO2 emissions as CO2-equivalents (CO2e). This metric converts the climate impact of pollutants like NOx and water vapor into an equivalent CO2 value, allowing for a more comprehensive comparison of all emission types.
We provide customized data analytics solutions that streamline CO2e reporting. Our consultancy services help airlines quantify and report non-CO2 emissions accurately, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met while minimizing operational disruption.
2. Global Warming Potential (GWP) Metrics
Airlines are required to calculate the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of their CO2 and non-CO2 emissions over three time periods—20, 50, and 100 years. This multi-layered approach provides a more nuanced understanding of both the short- and long-term climate impacts of aviation operations.
Our team offers expert workshops and data-driven strategies to help airlines integrate GWP calculations into their emissions reporting process. We ensure that airlines are well-equipped to assess and mitigate their long-term environmental impact while meeting EU compliance standards.
3. Introduction of the Non-CO2 Aviation Effects Tracking System (NEATS)
To assist airlines with these new regulatory requirements, the EU has introduced the Non-CO2 Aviation Effects Tracking System (NEATS). NEATS collects flight data—including fuel consumption, altitude, and atmospheric conditions—to provide a detailed assessment of non-CO2 emissions.
We help airlines integrate NEATS into their data management systems, simplifying compliance and optimizing the tracking of non-CO2 effects. With VURDHAAN’s guidance, airlines can leverage NEATS to enhance their operational efficiency and ensure accurate, real-time emissions reporting.
Implications for Airlines
The EU’s new regulations represent a paradigm shift in how airlines monitor and report their emissions. Below are some of the key implications for the aviation industry, and how VURDHAAN can help airlines meet these challenges:
1. Comprehensive Emissions Reporting
The updated rules require airlines to provide a full assessment of their climate impact, including both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions. This broadens the scope of accountability and compels airlines to address the total environmental impact of their operations.
We offer tailored support to ensure seamless compliance with the new reporting framework. Our expertise in emissions tracking and sustainability strategy equips airlines with the tools and knowledge necessary to meet their expanded reporting obligations.
2. Increased Accountability and Transparency
Reporting non-CO2 emissions in terms of CO2e ensures greater accountability, forcing airlines to take responsibility for their complete environmental footprint. This new level of transparency is expected to encourage more sustainable practices across the industry.
Our consultancy services include strategies for improving transparency and enhancing sustainability reporting, helping airlines demonstrate their commitment to responsible environmental stewardship. With our guidance, airlines can align with the EU’s expectations while bolstering their ESG performance.
3. Operational Adjustments
To minimize non-CO2 emissions, airlines may need to adjust flight operations, such as modifying flight paths and optimizing altitudes to reduce contrail formation. Additionally, upgrading to more fuel-efficient engines can help cut NOx emissions.
VURDHAAN offers in-depth operational analysis and optimization services to identify opportunities for reducing non-CO2 emissions. Our team works closely with airlines to develop customized strategies that enhance fuel efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and improve compliance.
4. Driving Innovation
The inclusion of non-CO2 emissions in reporting frameworks is likely to spur innovation within the aviation sector. Airlines may need to invest in new technologies such as more fuel-efficient engines, sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), and advanced flight planning systems.
We help airlines explore innovative solutions for reducing emissions, from integrating SAFs to adopting cutting-edge technologies. Our partnerships with industry stakeholders ensure that airlines stay ahead of regulatory changes and technological advancements, driving sustainable innovation in aviation.
How Airlines Can Prepare for the 2025 Implementation
With the 2025 deadline approaching, airlines must take proactive steps to ensure compliance with the EU’s new non-CO2 emissions regulations. Here’s a roadmap to help airlines prepare, with VURDHAAN’s expert guidance:
1. Implement Advanced Emissions Tracking Systems
Airlines need to invest in systems like NEATS to accurately track and report non-CO2 emissions.
We assist airlines in selecting, integrating, and optimizing emissions tracking systems to meet the EU’s stringent reporting requirements. Our solutions simplify compliance while enhancing data accuracy and operational efficiency.
2. Optimize Flight Operations
Reducing non-CO2 emissions will require adjustments to flight paths, altitudes, and aircraft technology to minimize contrails and NOx emissions.
Our operational optimization services help airlines review and modify their flight plans to reduce environmental impact. We work with airlines to implement changes that not only meet regulatory demands but also drive cost savings and fuel efficiency.
3. Adopt Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)
SAFs can significantly reduce both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions. Airlines should prioritize integrating SAFs into their fuel mix.
We facilitate partnerships between airlines and SAF providers, ensuring a smooth transition to sustainable fuels. Our consultancy services also help airlines optimize the use of SAFs to achieve both immediate emissions reductions and long-term sustainability goals.
4. Collaborate with Industry Stakeholders
Collaboration with industry regulators and stakeholders is key to staying informed about technological innovations and best practices in emissions reduction.
We serve as a liaison between airlines, regulators, and industry bodies, ensuring our clients are always up to date with the latest regulatory requirements and sustainable aviation advancements. Our collaborative approach fosters industry-wide innovation and compliance.
Conclusion: Partnering with VURDHAAN for a Sustainable Future
The EU’s 2024 regulations on non-CO2 emissions represent a critical step toward a more sustainable aviation industry. Airlines that proactively address these new requirements will not only ensure compliance but also position themselves as leaders in the fight against climate change.
At VURDHAAN, we provide the expertise, support, and strategic guidance airlines need to navigate this complex regulatory landscape. From advanced emissions tracking systems to operational optimization and the adoption of SAFs, our holistic services ensure that airlines are well-prepared to meet the 2025 deadline and beyond.
By partnering with VURDHAAN, airlines can achieve compliance, enhance their sustainability credentials, and lead the charge toward a greener future for aviation.