The interaction of air transport and the environment can be significantly enhanced by modern aircraft and technology, high quality environmental management and a corporate culture that respects the environment. Finnair operates amidst the sensitive and unique nature of the North, which requires a quality approach to environmental activity. Finnair, moreover, wishes to be one of Europe's leading airlines in environmental matters.
The milestones of environmental work in 2004 were the decision to acquire a new type of aircraft, the Embraer 170, environmental auditing of the Group's operations, more efficient collection of energy waste, and participation in an air transport MIPS research project (Material Impact Per Service, the use of natural materials in service provision).
Engine emissions, flight noise and waste management the key challenges
A responsible and open environmental policy is a permanent feature of the company's way of doing business. Finnair pays special attention to the most pressing environmental challenges, which are aircraft noise, engine emissions and waste management. These are addressed through investing in an efficient, environmentally sound fleet, developing the effectiveness of the airport environment, training personnel and promoting a highly tuned, value-based environmental philosophy throughout the entire organisation. Partners are required to pay similar attention to environmental matters.
Fleet renewal the cornerstone of environmental work
International air traffic is forecast to grow further in the future. In terms of competitiveness and the environment it is therefore important to operate with a fleet that loads the environment to the minimum possible extent. Finnair has, in financially challenging conditions, systematically continued the long-term, environmentally sound modernisation of its fleet. This is only possible, however, if operational profitability is maintained.
The Airbus A320A series aircraft acquisition programme, which was concluded during 2004, and the decision to invest in Embraer 170 aircraft will have a significant impact on Finnair's environmental work. The modern fleet is more efficient and environmentally sound. The engines of the new Airbus 320 fleet fulfil the future emissions criteria decided upon in autumn 2004, and the aircraft's economic fuel consumption and low carbon dioxide emissions support Finnair's efforts to meet the emissions targets set for air transport.
International guidelines and cooperation
In all its activities Finnair adheres to current environmental legislation and the environmental protection principles of the International Civil Aviation Organisation ICAO. As a member of the International Air Transport Association IATA, the company is also committed to reducing the environmental effects of its operations in an economically reasonable manner without jeopardising air safety. In addition to legislation and international commitments, successful environmental work is based on voluntary action and independent initiative, taking the special features of the local operating environment into account.
Greenhouse gas emissions and waste management the priorities for 2005
Finnair will also be actively involved in improving the management of air transport greenhouse gas emissions during 2005. Decisions made in order to find a fuel-efficient and suitable fleet for Finnair's route network have proved to be correct from an environmental standpoint. Finnair has been able to keep key figures describing environmental efficiency, such as fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions per passenger kilometre, at low levels.
Particular attention will be paid to the quality and quantity of waste during 2005. In terms of future material streams, the company will increasingly select products which are recyclable and which load the environment as little as possible. Priority areas include cabin service and technical services. |