Elephant in the room:
Can aviation meet Net Zero?

Elephant in the room:
Can aviation meet Net Zero?

At Rolls-Royce, we know that we have a fundamental part to play in meeting the demands of an ever-growing and ever-mobilising population, while also helping to achieve a net zero carbon future through our technologies and for the sectors we serve.

But alongside the work we do to achieve our net zero ambitions, we have a responsibility to be honest and transparent with our customers, stakeholders, and the people in our communities.

That’s why, in the run up to COP 27, we’ve spoken to our experts to answer some of the important environmental questions you’ve been asking. Starting with…

“Isn’t Sustainable Aviation Fuel made from crops that could feed the world?”

Sustainable Aviation Fuels are vital to making a significant, immediate contribution to delivering net zero for gas turbine powered narrowbody and widebody aircraft. Rolls-Royce is committed to collaborating across the industry to create an enabling environment for our customers to adopt these fuels in their operations. But how ‘sustainable’ are they? Dr Katja Lohnert, Chief Project Engineers for Sustainable Aviation Fuels, gives us a lesson in all things SAF.

“Why can’t your engines run on hydrogen, like the new lorries and excavators?”

Who said they can’t? When considering a new fuel, our engines aren’t the only consideration. They are an integral part of a global system that supports the movement of passengers and goods across the planet’s skies. Herve Morvan, Chief of Future Platforms, takes us into the world of emerging technologies with a special lens on modern-day applications for one of the aviation originals: hydrogen.

Read more about hydrogen here.

“Everyone talks about CO2 but I'd like to know what you're doing about noise?”

Braky Zewde, Global Noise Capability Manager, details the depths of our commitment to reducing aircraft noise. By applying our world beating engineering expertise to develop innovative methods to identify and address sources of aircraft noise, learn how Rolls-Royce will play a pivotal role in delivering a 65% reduction in perceived noise by 2050.

“Isn’t there a large carbon footprint from building a jet engine?”

Simon Burr, Director of Product Development and Technology, explains the multifaceted approach that we have taken to drive down our emissions footprint in pursuit of our net zero goals. From recycling spare and scrap material, to switching to renewable energy sources to power our facilities, Simon lifts the lid on our decarbonisation journey which, for some parts of our business, will complete years ahead of schedule.

“How can you be sure that all the exotic materials you use are ethically sourced?"

Complex products can give rise to complex supply chains, and Rolls-Royce is committed to guaranteeing that every component, mineral, and chemical that enters this chain is sourced in a socially responsible manner. David Deakin, Chief Procurement Officer for Rolls-Royce group, details the many steps that we are taking to ensure that our globally-recognised high standards are upheld throughout the value chain.

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