By Patience Chat Moses
The global aviation industry recently gathered in Montreal, Canada, from June 2nd to 4th for the 2025 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Aviation Climate Week. Under the theme “Skyward Action: Realising Aviation’s Sustainable Future”, this important hybrid event brought together global leaders and stakeholders to address the urgent challenges of climate change and develop a greener path for air travel. While discussions covered global carbon offsetting, non-CO₂ emissions, green airports, and circular economy principles, a significant narrative emerged from the active participation and strong statements of African nations.
Africa, a continent with emerging aviation growth and immense potential, is no longer just a recipient of climate policies but a proactive shaper of its sustainable future. Its representatives at the ICAO Climate Week underscored the continent’s unique needs, ambitious plans, and a resolute call for equitable global partnerships.
Key Takeaways
The convention delved into critical areas essential for aviation’s decarbonisation, from in-depth discussions focused on the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to ICAO’s global market-based measure designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international flights and experts exploring innovative ways to address aviation’s non-carbon dioxide emissions, such as nitrogen oxides and contrails, which also contribute to global warming. Participants also shared cutting-edge best practices on sustainable airport development, strategies for biodiversity conservation around aviation hubs, and building climate-resilient infrastructure to withstand environmental impacts. The event emphasised adopting circular economy principles within the aviation sector and fostering resilience to the inevitable impacts of climate change.
The International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations (ICCAIA) made several pledges during the event. ICCAIA reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, aligning with ICAO’s Long-Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG). It pledged to ensure that civil aviation products are compatible with and capable of operating on 100% ASTM-qualified SAF by 2030. The organisation highlighted its continued investment of approximately $15 billion annually in research and development of next-generation technologies aligned with ICAO’s long-term environmental objectives.
Africa’s Loud and Clear Voice: Nigeria and Beyond
African delegates at the event ensured their continent’s unique perspective was heard. Nigerian representatives at the ICAO Aviation Climate Week were instrumental in emphasising their nation’s commitment and the broader African agenda for aviation sustainability. Aviation officials highlighted the country’s rapid air transport growth and its dual commitment to expanding connectivity while vigorously pursuing sustainable practices. They reiterated the importance of integrating global standards like CORSIA into national aviation strategies.
Another critical message from Nigeria and other African nations was on the immense potential for local Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production across the continent. With abundant biomass and renewable energy sources, African countries are not just looking to consume SAF but to produce it, creating new industries, jobs, and energy independence. This resonated strongly with the ongoing discussions around unlocking climate finance for aviation decarbonisation, with ICAO and IRENA announcing a pioneering web-based platform to connect project developers with investors.
Countries like Kenya are actively working to become among the first in Africa to produce SAF commercially, collaborating with international partners to maximize resource use. Ethiopia, through Ethiopian Airlines, is positioning itself as a leader in clean aviation with ambitious goals for SAF production by leveraging its hydropower potential and promoting clean aviation practices across Africa through its role in the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC). The momentum generated at this event will carry forward to the 42nd ICAO Assembly, scheduled for September 23 to October 3, 2025. There, further discussions on sustainable aviation initiatives and binding policies are expected, with African perspectives playing an increasingly influential role in shaping the greener future of global aviation.