Post-Kyoto Protocol rules could cover planes and ships

Greenhouse gas emissions from planes and ships could be targets in the next commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, according to the European Environment Group.

A workshop in Oslo organized by the EU environment group and the Norwegian government concluded that there are no technical obstacles to bringing international aviation and shipping under a post-Kyoto Protocol. Both sectors are currently exempt from the protocol.

The first set of targets for greenhouse gas reductions under the Kyoto Protocol are for the years 2008 through 2012. The second commitment period would cover 2013 through 2017.

"If we are going to meet the long term targets of minimizing global warming to a maximum of two degrees Celsius, emissions from international aviation and shipping have to be included in future international agreements like those from all other sectors," said Jeff Huntington, head of the environmental assessment program at the European Environment Group.

Emissions from international aviation and shipping are the fastest growing source of greenhouse gases, according to the group.

The group said EU carbon dioxide emissions from international aviation and navigation have increased by 96 percent and 50 percent, respectively, between 1990 and 2005.

International talks began in May 2007 on a future treaty. Negotiations on the post-2012 agreement are expected to take at least two years.