We will be addressing non-CO2 aviation emissions during this event

In September we will be holding a Symposium on Non-CO2 Aviation Emissions, where we will bring together experts, researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to address non-CO2 emissions in the aviation sector. This event will provide a platform for sharing the latest scientific research, potential measures such as innovative technologies, effective operational strategies or cleaner energies, aimed at both mitigating the environmental impact of aviation non-CO2 emissions and the potential ways to enhance our knowledge of non-CO2 emissions moving forward.

Our aim during the Symposium is to raise awareness on the non-CO2 emissions in aviation operations, and our hope is that we can create synergies between different stakeholders. While there is substantial understanding of the components of aviation’s climate impacts, particularly CO2 emissions, important uncertainties remain in quantifying some of aviation’s non-CO2 climate terms and in the underlying physical processes. As the science evolves, ICAO continues to assess the situation, identifying where action can be taken.

During this three-day event, being held from 16 to 18 September 2024, at ICAO Headquarters, Montréal, Canada, we will focus on taking stock of the scientific knowledge on non-CO2 effects and sharing the work undertaken by ICAO and all relevant stakeholders, as well as exploring future activities and measures to potentially mitigate and address these effects, considering the existing scientific uncertainties.

As with many of our events there are opportunities for stakeholders to showcase their products and services. For more information on the sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, click on this form. We’re sharing the programme for the event below.


Session 1 will provide a comprehensive historical overview and the current state of scientific knowledge on non-CO2 aviation emissions. Participants will gain insights into the latest research and impact modeling conducted by various organizations. A High-Level Panel will look at how science and policy interact and how scientific work can facilitate policy development

Session 2: Enhancing Scientific Knowledge is divided into two parts:

  • Part I: Non-CO2 Emissions and Particulate Matters will provide detailed information on non-CO2 aviation emissions and particulate matters, including the latest knowledge on their impact. This session will also share initiatives aimed at enhancing scientific knowledge on these emissions.
  • Part II: Contrails will delve into specifics of contrails, exploring the latest research on their formation and climate impact. Participants will learn about ongoing initiatives that focus on enhancing scientific understanding of contrails.

Session 3 is divided into three parts, each highlighting different approaches to mitigating non-CO2 emissions:

  • Part I: Innovative Technologies will showcase ongoing and future initiatives involving advanced technologies designed to reduce non-CO2 emissions.
  • Part II: Innovative Operations will highlight operational strategies that are currently being implemented or planned for future mitigation efforts.
  • Part III: Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), and Cleaner Energy will explore the impact of various fuel compositions, including hydrogen, and initiatives aimed at promoting their use in aviation.
  • A high-level panel on Mitigating Non-CO2 Aviation Emissions – What is Possible: Policy Development will provide a platform for ICAO Member States and industry representatives to discuss the latest policy developments and their implications for international aviation.

Session 4 focuses on partnerships and collaborative efforts:

  • Part I: Research and Monitoring will discuss the roles of stakeholders in enhancing research capabilities and monitoring non-CO2 emissions.
  • Part II: Implementing Mitigation Measures will explore successful models of collaboration and strategies for implementing effective mitigation measures.

Session 5 will look towards the future, discussing potential ways forward and showcasing inspiring global initiatives and ideas for addressing non-COemissions.

A concluding high-level panel will revisit the way forward, offering an opportunity for ICAO Member States and industry to discuss actionable steps the sector can take now and in the future. This symposium takes us critical step towards fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future for the aviation industry. By sharing knowledge, advancing research, and promoting innovative solutions, ICAO continues to lead the way in mitigating the environmental impact of aviation.

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