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Photography

In reply to the discussion: Last plane photo for awhile [View all]

George McGovern

(8,074 posts)
7. Re: Contrails
Fri May 30, 2025, 09:36 AM
May 30

Aviation's little-known pollution problem

Aviation contributes to global warming by emitting carbon dioxide (CO₂ and currently accounts for around 2-3% of annual global CO₂ emissions. But on top of that, aircraft engines emit other gases as well as particulate matter that affect the climate and our health. These are called non-CO₂ emissions and are little known despite their huge impact on the environment. The climate impact of aviation's non-CO₂ effects is at least as important as the impact of aviation's CO₂ and could triple the climate impact of your next flight.
The most famous of these non-CO₂ emissions are contrails. Contrails — the white lines we see behind planes — contribute disproportionately to aviation's climate impact. Contrails form clouds that act like a giant blanket. They trap heat that would normally escape from Earth into space, adding to global warming.
On top of the climate impact, pollutants such as soot, nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides negatively impact air quality around airports — with consequences on people's health.
https://www.transportenvironment.org

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