By 2022, global carbon dioxide emissions had reached an estimated 800 megatons, accounting for about 2 percent of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

While this figure represented roughly 80 percent of pre-pandemic levels, the rising demand for air travel—projected to grow by 2 percent to 5 percent annually through 2050—could further escalate aviation-related carbon emissions.

Marius van der Ham, General Manager for Eastern Countries, Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana at Air France-KLM, emphasized that the aviation industry can reverse this trend.

"Through the advancement of innovative aircraft technologies, optimizing flight operations, and expanding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), airlines can significantly reduce carbon emissions and even achieve Net Zero ahead of the 2050 target," said van der Ham.

He highlighted the role of modern technologies in curbing emissions, citing next-generation aircraft that reduce carbon output by 20 percent to 25 percent and have 40 percent smaller noise footprint. These aircraft also consume less fuel, further contributing to emission reductions.

"Airlines must prioritize the reduction of carbon emissions to create a safer and more sustainable world," van der Ham added.

The airline has been actively involved in initiatives to reduce its carbon emissions as part of the broader aviation industry's push towards sustainability. 

Some of KLM’s key emission reduction initiatives include fleet modernization by using fuel-efficient aircrafts, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), operational efficiency as well as partnering with airports, governments, and environmental organizations, to accelerate progress in emission reduction.