The ICAO Assembly: a critical opportunity for aviation to change its course on climate change

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly starts on Tuesday, 23 September. As a triennial event, it represents a critical opportunity for the aviation industry to change course and address its growing climate impact.

Aoife O’Leary, CEO of Opportunity Green says:

“International aviation is one of the fastest-growing drivers of climate change – yet ICAO has failed to deliver the action needed to align the sector with the 1.5°C Paris goal. Current measures fall far short of what is required, leaving climate vulnerable countries to bear the greatest costs while having the least say in decision-making. At this Assembly, governments must push ICAO to raise its ambition, ensure fair participation, and recognise states’ legal obligations to act on aviation emissions. It’s crucial that ICAO agrees a pathway for the aviation sector to contribute revenues to climate action and resilience in the countries most affected by its pollution. We cannot afford another cycle of delay – ICAO must finally take responsibility and set aviation on a credible path to decarbonisation.”

James Kershaw, Scientific Officer at Opportunity Green says:

“Now is the time to confront aviation’s free pass and show how a well-designed emissions price could not only cut emissions but also support the very countries most at risk from climate change. While industry argues this would harm tourism in vulnerable countries, our research shows the impacts are minimal and can be mitigated. With smart policy design – such as phasing in levies, targeting costs at those who can best afford them, and equitably distributing revenues – climate progress and economic fairness can go hand in hand.”

Emma Fenton, Senior Director of Climate Diplomacy at Opportunity Green says:

“At this Assembly, governments must make four key asks: a step change in ambition and pace of decarbonisation; a stronger voice for climate vulnerable countries in shaping aviation policy; recognition of the growing body of international legal obligations on climate action; and clear progress on pricing emissions from aviation to support resilience and transition in developing countries most affected by climate change. These are not optional add-ons – they are the minimum that’s needed for ICAO to prove it is serious about tackling aviation’s climate impact.”

Read more by Opportunity Green

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