Environmental concern about climate change is becoming an increasingly important political, economic and social issue for aviation. Tackling the environmental issue is the latest major challenge facing global aviation. Although aviation represents only 2% of global CO2 emissions, air transport generates 0.6 billion tones of CO2 a year.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a global leader in environmental aviation matters, having developed a range of standards, policies and guidance material for the application of integrated measures by member states. These address aircraft noise and emissions embracing technological improvements, operating procedures, proper organization of air traffic, appropriate airport and land-use planning, and the use of market-based options. ICAO has published its 2016 Environmental Report – On Board a Sustainable Future.

As aviation activity in Vanuatu is small, it is projected to be increasing in the future and the pressure on aircraft operator, airport and air traffic management (ATM) to increase capacity is intensifying the debate on the environmental impact of aviation. Internationally it is yet to be determined whether it is possible to achieve an environmentally sustainable air traffic system and simultaneously meet demand.

The need to address the adverse environmental impact of aviation is on the agenda of ICAO and in Vanuatu is well recognized in the Civil Aviation Act 1999. This commits the State to achieving harmonization and integration of the need to minimize any adverse environmental impact.

The CAAV seeks to minimize the impact on the environment caused by its safety regulation and air navigation services activities. The Authority is committed to working with international aviation bodies with the aim of protecting the environment through the development of an Environment Policy. This policy will adopts international best practice to reduce climate-effecting emissions and the adverse impact of aircraft noise emissions and to implement initiatives to conserve energy at all CAAV facilities.

CAAV is dedicated to developing innovative air traffic management initiatives that minimize the impact of aviation on the environment. These airspace initiatives are aimed at reducing the distances aircraft fly, thereby reducing their fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.