IATA and SFC Unite to Enhance CO2 Emissions Transparency in Air Cargo

In a pivotal advancement for the global air transport sector's decarbonization journey, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has joined forces with the Smart Freight Centre (SFC) to roll out a new initiative for consistent and transparent CO2 emissions calculations for air cargo shipments. This collaboration aims to address the urgent need for reliable carbon footprint assessments within the logistics industry, marking a significant step towards sustainable air freight.

The partnership's focus is the development of the cargo component of IATA’s CO2 Connect platform, an extension of the successful passenger version launched in 2022. Leveraging primary industry data, CO2 Connect aims to offer highly accurate carbon calculations for air cargo, enhancing the industry’s capacity for informed decision-making in support of global decarbonization goals.

“Our collaboration with SFC symbolizes a leap forward in providing the air cargo industry with a definitive tool for carbon footprint calculations," highlighted Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Commercial Products & Services. "This tool is indispensable for all industry stakeholders, including airlines, shippers, and their customers, who are striving to align their operations with global sustainability efforts."

The initiative promises to standardize CO2 emissions reporting, offering a common methodology for the industry. This consistency is crucial for enabling the industry's biggest shippers and freight forwarders to make more environmentally friendly choices, from pre-shipment decisions to comprehensive emissions reporting. The integration of SFC's Clean Air Transport Program within this platform underscores the commitment to transparency and accuracy in emissions calculations, fostering trust and collaboration across the supply chain.

"This milestone is the culmination of extensive efforts towards a unified emissions reporting standard, which is more critical now than ever," stated Andrea Schoen, SFC Director of the Clean Air Transport Program. "Our partnership with IATA is a testament to our mutual dedication to driving the aviation industry towards a more sustainable future through transparent and actionable emissions data."

With the pilot involvement of Kuehne+Nagel, a leading logistics company, the IATA CO2 Connect for Cargo tool is set to meet the nuanced needs of freight forwarders and their customers, bridging the gap between current practices and the sustainable aspirations of the air cargo industry. Slated for release in Q4 2024, the CO2 Connect for Cargo tool represents a monumental stride towards harmonizing the air cargo sector's approach to measuring and mitigating its environmental impact, aligning with the broader objectives of the aviation industry's decarbonization efforts.