Every year on September 7th we recognize the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. The theme of this year’s commemoration, “Together for Clean Air,” underscores the crucial need for collective efforts to combat air pollution. Air pollution is a global issue with far-reaching consequences, impacting both human health and the environment. Everyone has a role to play in safeguarding the earth’s atmosphere and ensuring clean air for all.
One of ICAO’s environmental goals is to limit or reduce the impact of aviation emissions on local air quality (LAQ). Since the late 1970s, ICAO has been developing measures to address emissions from aircraft engines in the vicinity of the airport and from relevant airport sources. Volume II of Annex 16 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation contains Standards for aircraft engine emissions and is accompanied by related guidance material and technical documentation. Volume II addresses ways to decrease the negative environmental consequences of airplane engine emissions, particularly regarding air quality and climate change. This publication offers clear and more consistent guidelines, creating a more detailed framework for certifying and operating airplane engines according to specific emissions standards.
ICAO’s commitment to reducing air pollution goes hand in hand with the international community’s efforts to substantially reduce deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air pollution, as outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. On this International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, ICAO reaffirms its dedication to the theme “Together for Clean Air.” By actively engaging with Member States and other stakeholders, ICAO continues to champion cleaner aviation practices, mitigate emissions, and promote shared responsibility in protecting the planet’s atmosphere. Through these concerted efforts, ICAO will support global efforts in ensuring clean air for blue skies for current and future generations.
More information on ICAO’s work to reduce aviation’s impacts on local air quality is available here.