CO2 – Reduction, Control, and Compensation
KLM’s CO2 policy pursues three objectives – reduction, control, and compensation. Our fleet renewal program, which began in 2003, constitutes the most important step towards reducing emissions.
Reduction
KLM is actively reducing CO2 emissions on various fronts. Economic and ecological interests go hand-in-hand here. Here are a few examples:
Fleet Renewal
KLM’s fleet currently comprises 204 aircraft. At present, our fleet renewal program for intercontinental destinations is more or less complete. Our oldest aircraft have been replaced by Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 aircraft, which are up to 25% more fuel-efficient than their predecessors. In 2007 KLM cityhopper launched a major fleet renewal program, which will see fifteen older Fokker 100 aircraft replaced by more modern Embraer aircraft, which are 10% more fuel efficient.
‘Winglets’
All of Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft are equipped with winglets. These vertical wingtips improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption, thus reducing CO2 emissions by about 3% for this aircraft type.
Smart Aircraft Deployment
KLM strives to a achieve an optimum match between aircraft type and passenger numbers – which may change over time. In the peak summer period, we will use a large Boeing 737 to fly to Venice, while in the winter we will use the smaller and more efficient Fokker 100.
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Better Engine Cleaning
KLM has developed a means of carrying out the Engine Water Wash method inside the hangar during regular maintenance. The washing process uses about a 100 liters of water, which is used to rinse the engine a few times. Clean engine burn less fuel and emit less CO2.
Energy Consumption On the Ground
We don’t only consume energy in the air, but also on the ground. Although this only accounts for 1% of our total energy consumption, that’s enough for us to devote attention to it. We also take special measures to reduce energy consumption on the ground.
Aircraft of the Future
KLM is supporting research by the Delft University of Technology to develop a new aircraft that is 50% more efficient and produces 50% less noise. KLM’s contribution to this long term project includes practical insight and data about aircraft deployment and performance. The aircraft in question, code-named CleanERA, must be ready to fly in 2025.
Control – The Emissions Trading System
KLM supports the principle of the Emissions Trading System (ETS), in which emission rights can be bought and sold within the airline industry. The European ETS can be an effective instrument for managing CO2 emissions when appropriately designed. Instead of a regional scheme, a global approach to CO2 emissions trading is the most effective option.
Moreover, for KLM the Emissions Trading System needs to be coupled with the establishment of a Single European Sky: ETS should not penalise airlines for the CO2 they are forced to emit as they fly through Europe’s fragmented airspace. The SES would be governed by a single pan-European air traffic control authority. It would allow for the more efficient plotting of flight paths and could reduce emissions by as much as 12%. We have for a long time led the way in plans to establish a Single European Sky and will continue to do so.
Compensation – The WWF’s Gold Standard
KLM offers customers a voluntary service called CO2ZERO, where you can compensate for your personal CO2 emissions by investing in CO2 reduction projects approved by the World Wide Fund for Nature. These projects ensure that the compensation paid will be invested to generate sustainable energy, primarily in developing nations. Early 2009 the construction of a wind farm started on the isle of Bonaire.
Daily about 500 KLM passengers offset their flight. We expect more and ore passengers to participate. It bears mentioning that KLM views this form of compensation as a temporary solution. Our ultimate aim is to reduce the volume of CO2 emitted by our aircraft. However, this form of compensation will remain the only alternative until feasible technology is developed to reduce emissions.
