bbc.com
Private Jet Emissions Soar
Climate scientists warn of the significant carbon emissions from the ultra-rich's use of private jets, highlighting the disproportionate impact of their travel habits.
English
United Kingdom
Climate ChangeClimateTravelAviationEmissionsWealth
FifaUnLinnaeus University
Stefan Gossling
- Where are most private jets registered?
- The majority of private jets (69%) are registered in the US, followed by Brazil, Canada, Germany, Mexico, and the UK.
- How much did private jet emissions increase between 2019 and 2023?
- Private jet emissions rose 46% between 2019 and 2023, with a single hour of flight producing as much CO2 as an average person emits in a year. This is due to increased demand and post-pandemic travel.
- What events highlighted the significant carbon footprint of private jet travel?
- Flights to events like the FIFA World Cup and the UN Climate Conference in Dubai generated significant emissions, highlighting the hypocrisy of some attendees.
- What were some key findings regarding the distance and purpose of private jet flights?
- Researchers tracked flights globally, focusing on leisure trips, and found that many flights were short distances, under 500km, demonstrating the convenience-over-necessity factor.
- Who are the primary users of private jets and what is their estimated proportion of the global adult population?
- The ultra-wealthy, comprising about 0.003% of the global adult population, are the primary users of private jets, using them frequently for leisure and short trips.