Although air transport has had a moderate impact on climate change (it is responsible for 2-3% of global CO₂ emissions), Air France is doing everything it can to reduce the rate of increase of its CO2 emissions (the only greenhouse gases targeted by the Kyoto protocol – not applying to international aviation - from aircraft engines).

CO₂ is mostly produced when cruising (79.3%) but also when climbing after take-off (14.4%).

Note that around 80% of Air France’s emissions come from long-haul aircraft that account for around 20% of all flights. There is no substitute method of transport for either passenger or cargo flights carrying express goods such as valuables or perishable foodstuffs.

The Company considers legitimate that the airline industry should assume its share of responsibility regarding climate change.

The Group has already engaged and integrated major environmental achievements in its strategy. Air France-KLM proposes a Climate Action Plan to pursue its commitments. This plan was approved by the Board of directors in March, 2007.

Air France  has set up a Climate Action Plan to combat climate change.

• We support the Kyoto Protocol and the efforts to reach a new deal in Copenhagen. We take part in initiatives aimed at ensuring a fair contribution of the aviation sector to collective
efforts, which is based on a global approach adapted to the development level of each country (Kyoto Protocol) and on the fair treatment of airlines (Chicago Convention).

• We continue to renew our aircraft fleet and support aviation research on improving energy efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions.

• We provide our customers with transparent and reliable information on their CO2 emissions and opportunities to compensate them.

• We support NGO environmental protection programs.

• We promote research programs for renewable energy sources such as sustainable biofuels for aviation • We motivate staff, throughout the Group, to back ambitious environmental action plans, including fuel savings measures but also aiming at reducing emissions generated by our ground operations.

The role of CO₂ in the greenhouse effect has been fully identified by the scientific community. CO₂ emissions are directly proportional to fuel consumption.

So the goal of reducing CO₂ emissions merges with that of business performance, since jetfuel has always been one of airlines’ biggest cost items.

To reduce its CO₂ emissions, Air France tries to cut fuel consumption by acquiring the most fuel-efficient aircraft where possible, applying a fuel saving plan, renewing its ground vehicle fleet, and optimizing its procedures.