INAEC Aviation Corporation has become the first general aviation operator in the Philippines to submit its Climate Neutral Now Pledge to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC Pledge). By signing the pledge, INAEC has joined a global initiative to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. INAEC has committed itself to measure its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, plan and implement actions to reduce them and consider contributing to their reduction through credible carbon credits.

INAEC has been monitoring its carbon emissions since 2018, despite the fact that the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which took effect last January 1, 2019, does not apply to general or business aviation operators.

“This is a natural step for INAEC as part of the Lopez Group of Companies,” says president Jay Lopez. “The Lopez Group has firmly established itself as a firm advocate of environmental protection and climate action, as manifested by our 'no to coal' declaration way back in 2016. While the global aviation industry accounts for a mere two per cent of the total GHG emissions, five per cent if you consider the other gases and water vapour trails produced by aircraft, conventional flying is nevertheless still a damaging way to travel for the climate. And the aviation industry is an ever-expanding market, with more and more people expected to travel by air in the future. We very much realise the need for timely action so that the 1.5 degree goal remains attainable. Our aim at INAEC is to contribute to a socially responsible, cleaner and safer world for our children's future.”

“We are glad to count INAEC Aviation as a participant in our Climate Neutral Now initiative," adds UNFCCC secretariat representative Miguel Naranjo. "Action on climate by all stakeholders is urgent, and committing to our process helps organisations and companies understand their carbon footprint, the ways to reduce it and potentially compensate it. We invite INAEC and all its stakeholders to make the commitment and work to reduce their emissions further in a collaborative manner.”

At present, INAEC monitors the fuel and energy consumption of its aircraft, equipment and facilities and, based on the data, pinpoints and implements ways to reduce such consumption. This is done through efficient flight scheduling, personnel trip planning, energy efficiency reminders and continuous awareness campaigns to employees regarding the climate emergency. INAEC will make annual reports to the UNFCC on its GHG emissions monitoring and reduction actions.