British Airways Takes a Lead in Carbon Removal

British Airways has announced a significant investment in carbon removal projects, solidifying its position as the largest carbon removals purchaser in the UK and the largest airline purchaser of carbon removals globally.

The airline has signed a six-year agreement to purchase over £9 million worth of carbon removal credits from innovative projects in the UK and overseas. These credits will contribute to British Airways’ ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.

Carbon removal projects supported by British Airways include initiatives such as capturing CO2 from whisky distilleries and repurposing it into building materials, enhanced rock weathering techniques, and high-durability reforestation projects. The airline is also investing in carbon capture projects in Canada and India, focusing on carbon removal from rivers, oceans, and soil.

British Airways has partnered with CUR8, a UK-based company specializing in sourcing high-quality carbon removal credits. The airline has purchased 33,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits through its CUR8 portfolio, contributing to the growth and development of the carbon removal sector.

Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, said: “As we approach the halfway point in this critical decade of action, we’re sharpening our focus on delivering real, tangible progress by 2030. We know flying has a significant impact on the planet, and achieving net zero by 2050 requires bold, innovative action today, as well as long-term transformation, and our latest investments in carbon removals reflects this commitment. While small in comparison to our total emissions, these projects are crucial in stimulating the carbon removals market. By supporting pioneering solutions, we’re not only contributing to immediate progress but also laying the groundwork for the large-scale changes needed to meet our climate goals. There is no pathway to net zero for aviation without carbon removals.”

British Airways’ investment in carbon removals aligns with its broader sustainability transformation plan, which includes reducing emissions through operational improvements and partnerships with technology providers. The airline aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, and carbon removals will play a significant role in achieving this goal.