Emissions trading in aviation

Emissions trading is the EU's method of choice to fight climate change. The EU Emissions Trading System establishes an upper limit, or 'cap', of annual CO2 emissions for over 12,000 energy and emission-intensive industry installations for the respective countries. From 2012, the EU Emissions Trading System will also be extended to the aviation sector. Since 1 January 2010, CO2 emissions of all flights taking off from or landing on the territory of an EU Member State must be recorded and reported. Starting from 2012, emission allowances for CO2 emissions caused by these flights must be surrendered annually.