In what appears to be the biggest single commitment by any airline on sustainability, Emirates has committed $200 million to fund research and development (R&D) projects to reduce the impact of fossil fuels in commercial aviation. The funds will be disbursed over the next three years.
Emirates will identify partnerships with leading organisations working on solutions in advanced fuel and energy technologies.
Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline said: “We are ring-fencing $200 million to invest in advanced fuel and energy solutions for aviation, which is where airlines currently face the biggest impediment in reducing our environmental impact. We believe our industry needs better solutions, and that’s why we’re looking to partner with leading organisations on R&D. Our aim is to contribute meaningfully to practical solutions for the long-term sustainability of commercial aviation.”
The $ 200 million fund is earmarked for R&D, and not for operating costs like the purchase of SAF or carbon offsets to tick regulatory boxes activities we consider business-as-usual. Until viable solutions can be found, Emirates will continue to implement environmentally responsible practices including uplifting SAF where feasible, ensuring efficient fleet operations, and inducting modern aircraft.
Emirates’ Environmental Sustainability Executive Steering Group will oversee disbursements from the fund, with support from technical experts.