Ricardo to support development of expert network tasked with addressing non-CO2 aviation emissions

Ricardo, in collaboration with ENVISA, has been appointed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to support the management of a new Expert Network focused on assessing the climate impacts of non-CO2 emissions generated by the aviation sector.

The initiative is funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe programme and is part of a package of ‘Climate, Energy and Mobility’ research actions that will collectively contribute to the EU’s objective to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

The Aviation Non-CO2 Expert Network (ANCEN) will comprise of around 45 experts, bringing together representatives from the industry – airlines, air navigation service providers, manufacturers, fuel producers – alongside specialists from government, regulation, intergovernmental organisations and academia. The group will work to develop a common understanding on the climate science and impact assessments in order to inform policy discussions on mitigation measures.

^{Picture courtesy of EASA}

Ricardo’s Sustainable Transport Policy team will support the coordination of the Network’s activities, monitor progress against its objectives, and provide regular progress reports and communication with the wider aviation sector.

Under the agreement, Ricardo and Envisa will perform this role through until September 2027.

Hannah Abson, Senior Consultant at Ricardo who will be leading the team, says the formation of the Network will provide a valuable guiding mind for the industry:

"This community of experts representing industry, science and regulation will help collate and focus research, supporting the development of strong, evidence-based responses to issues and challenges around non-CO2 aviation emissions. We’re looking forward to working with EASA and the Network over the next three years to help it deliver on its objectives and promote collaboration on this complex yet crucial challenge for the aviation sector in addressing its emissions footprint”.

Non-CO2 Aviation Emissions

Although aviation is responsible for around 2% of human-made CO2 emissions, its non-CO2 emissions must also be considered when determining its total impact on the climate. 

These can most visibly be seen in the contrails formed by the release of water vapour by jet engines, but non-CO2 emissions also includes the release of soot, carbon monoxide and nitrogen and sulphur oxides at high altitude.

The industry has recently been building a stronger scientific understanding of the effects of non-CO2 emissions and ANCEN will facilitate a more co-ordinated approach to implement effective mitigation measures.

For more information: www.easa.europa.eu/ancen