Climate change is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in the UK and aviation makes a significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The Government’s own consultation on The Future of Aviation stated, “the contribution of aviation to climate change was 3.5 per cent of the global total from all human activities. By comparison, the UK’s total contribution is 2.5 per cent.” Aviation is one of the world's fastest growing source of greenhouse gases.

Ancient woodland is especially vulnerable to climate change. Many immobile species will be unable to keep up with the pace of change. Some may be able to respond quickly but habitats will be not able to move en masse.

As aviation is a major emitter of greenhouse gases we believe that it is essential that growth of the sector be regulated and that stringent controls be placed on emissions from aircraft.

Large-scale expansion would jeopardise the chances of the UK meeting its commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with international agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol. Although aviation is not included in the Protocol, it is self-defeating to encourage expansion of an industry that is one of the major contributors to CO2 emissions while attempting to achieve cuts in emissions in other sectors.

Targets for reduction of emissions from aircraft should be imposed nationally and internationally. This will require negotiation between the UK and other countries, and we would like to see the UK take the lead in this area, ensuring that emissions from aviation are limited as far as possible.

Regulation should be undertaken alongside incentives for airlines to take a more environmentally responsible attitude towards the environment. It is also important that a way is found of internalising the environmental cost that is acceptable to consumers, so that the true cost of flying is recognised.