Mott MacDonald joins defence aviation net zero charter

Reducing the climate impact of defence aviation

Mott MacDonald has signed up to the Defence Aviation Net Zero Charter, that commits signatories to reduce the climate impact of aviation activity vital to national security.

The formal signing took place at the recently held Defence Suppliers Forum (DSF), that exists to identify and action areas of improvement between the Ministry of Defence and UK industry.

Mott MacDonald facilitated a workshop for the forum, held at Heathrow Airport, to enable crucial discussions, leveraging insights and experiences across the civil and defence sectors, sharing the latest thinking across airports, airlines and industry bodies.

As a result, plans were set in motion to further enhance the delivery of sustainable aviation fuel, to find alternative energy solutions at airbases and to boost operational efficiencies.

Paul Harrison, key account lead for defence in Europe at Mott MacDonald, said: "UK defence is leading the way with its ambitious environmental programme. As proud members of the Defence Suppliers Forum’s Aviation Working Group, Mott MacDonald is committed to helping the sector achieve its sustainability ambitions. Hosting a collaborative workshop at Heathrow gave us the opportunity to connect organisations spearheading sustainability across the civil sector, sharing the insights and experiences critical to delivering against this significant challenge, whilst securing continued operational advantages."

Air Vice Marshal Harris, Defence Supplier Forum sustainability chair said: "There are many more parallels between defence and civil aviation sectors than we often realise, especially in terms of sustainability and resilience. Working closer together provides fantastic opportunities to share ideas and to collaborate on resolving common challenges".

The forum participants were RAF, DIO, MOD, Thales, Jacobs, Serco, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, BAE Systems, Sheffield University, GKN Aerospace, Leonardo and Reaction Engines.