Climate change and the aviation sector: A focus on the Victoria Falls tourism route.

Abstract This study examined the environmental impacts of the aviation industry on the Victoria Falls tourism route and sustainability measures being put in place to deal with aviation's impact on climate change. Primary data that includes an online survey of 370 tourists and secondary data from IATA Schedule Reference Analyzer among other sources were used in establishing the carbon footprint of the sector and an assessment of measures being undertaken to cut back on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in this case study. The study revealed that there is a correlation between the aviation industry and climate change. Despite efforts to cut back on carbon emissions, such efforts are not sufficient to result in meaningful cutbacks in GHG emissions owing to the inadequate regulatory framework and capacity challenges. Currently, the tourism sector on the Victoria Falls route outpaces technological gains aimed at achieving carbon-neutral growth. It is in African aviation's best interests to cut back on carbon emissions, which can be done through public and private partnerships by taking advantage of available research. In such efforts, transparency and accountability will assist in steering the aviation industry towards the green path. Further research is recommended on how Africa can tap into alternative aviation fuels as a measure of achieving sustainable development goals. Highlights • Aviation is the single largest contributor to climate change in the tourism industry. • Aviation industry's carbon footprint is set to continue to grow despite technological innovation advancement in the sector. • The aviation industry is highly unlikely to achieve the carbon neutral growth by 2020. • There is a lot of improvement that is needed to be done to ensure that the aviation industry in Africa reduces its carbon footprint. • There is a need for continued research and innovation in green technology and sustainable aviation fuels to ensure the sector get closer to meeting its targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]