Structuring Aviation for a Successful Net Zero Transition
From boardrooms to runways, the aviation industry is rethinking its future to achieve net zero emissions. A guest post for The Green Edge from Richard Nanton of Auditel.
Richard Nanton is a specialist in carbon accounting, ESG, and sustainability compliance. With significant management experience in the aviation industry, he helps logistics and aviation companies navigate emissions regulations, reduce carbon footprints, and achieve net-zero goals through tailored strategies and expert guidance.
The aviation industry is at a pivotal moment as it embarks on the journey to net zero emissions. This transformation goes beyond technological advancements and regulatory mandates—it requires a fundamental rethink of organisational structures, evolving roles, and cross-sector collaboration to build a truly sustainable future. Achieving this goal will hinge on strong governance, strategic financial planning, robust infrastructure development, and a workforce prepared for the challenges ahead.
Redefining Governance for a Net Zero Future
Sustainability in aviation has evolved from a corporate social responsibility initiative into a core business imperative. To embed sustainability into every aspect of operations, airlines and airports are restructuring their governance frameworks. Board-level sustainability committees are becoming standard, ensuring that emissions reduction targets, investment strategies, and compliance with evolving regulations are integrated into corporate decision-making.
A key shift in this transformation is the growing collaboration between sustainability and finance leadership. Traditionally the domain of Chief Sustainability Officers, sustainability reporting is now interwoven with financial strategy. Chief Financial Officers are taking a more active role in carbon accounting and non-financial disclosures. The emergence of the Sustainability Controller role underscores the convergence of sustainability and financial performance, ensuring carbon accountability is managed with the same rigor as financial oversight.
Regulatory task forces are also becoming essential. As emissions standards, carbon trading policies, and government mandates evolve, aviation organisations must proactively engage in policy navigation. Dedicated teams are critical in maintaining compliance, mitigating risks, and aligning sustainability efforts with broader industry regulations.
Airports as Decarbonisation Hubs
Airports are rapidly transforming from traditional transport nodes into energy and sustainability hubs. Their infrastructure must be adapted to support alternative fuels and innovative mobility solutions that drive long-term emissions reductions.
Sustainable infrastructure teams are leading efforts to integrate on-site renewable energy, battery storage, and the distribution of hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels. Beyond fuel infrastructure, airports are also advancing mobility management. The electrification of ground support fleets and the transition to electric public transport require dedicated expertise to oversee EV charging networks and fleet conversions.
Financing these large-scale changes demands innovative approaches. Public-private partnerships are proving essential in bridging the investment gap. By working collaboratively with governments and private investors, airports can develop scalable funding models that accelerate the transition toward greener infrastructure.
The Role of Airlines in Net Zero Operations
For airlines, achieving net zero requires a holistic strategy that combines cutting-edge aircraft technology, operational efficiencies, and sustainable supply chain management. Fleet planning teams will be at the forefront of this transition, ensuring the smooth integration of electric, hydrogen, and hybrid aircraft.
Sustainable fuel procurement has become a key strategic priority. The shift from conventional aviation fuels to SAF and hydrogen necessitates the development of new procurement strategies and long-term supplier agreements to ensure both affordability and availability.
Operational efficiency also plays a crucial role in emissions reduction. AI-powered route planning and fuel optimisation strategies are now essential tools for minimising environmental impact. At the same time, sustainability-focused accounting teams are critical for tracking emissions reductions, overseeing offsetting strategies, and managing the purchase of carbon credits to ensure compliance with regulatory targets.
Developing a Workforce for a Low-Carbon Future
Aviation’s transition to net zero will require a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting evolving sustainability initiatives. Training programs are being developed to ensure that engineers, technicians, and pilots are proficient in emerging propulsion technologies, including hydrogen-powered aircraft, SAF handling, and electric aircraft maintenance.
Cross-industry collaboration is also becoming more prevalent. Aviation stakeholders are increasingly partnering with energy, technology, and logistics industries to share knowledge, accelerate innovation, and align best practices. Leadership development in climate strategy is another growing priority, equipping executives with the expertise to integrate sustainability into corporate strategy and long-term investment planning.
Another crucial aspect is the need for expertise in aircraft end-of-life management and recycling. As aviation moves towards sustainability, the industry must also address the responsible decommissioning of aging aircraft. The proper dismantling, recycling, and repurposing of aircraft materials, including metals, composites, and electronics, will be essential to reducing waste and improving the circular economy in aviation. Developing a skilled workforce in aircraft decommissioning and material recovery will ensure that the aviation industry’s sustainability efforts extend beyond operational efficiency to full lifecycle management.
Our thanks to Richard for this guest post. Contact Richard Nanton at richard.nanton@auditel.co.uk.
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