Chapter 6: Problems Associated with Aviation Carbon Emissions and Carbon Footprint of Tourism in South Africa: Policy, Regulations, and Governance Issues

The aviation industry plays a vital role in supporting tourism and international businesses by providing the fastest transportation network in the world and also boosting economic growth and creating employment. However, it harms the environment, mainly through air pollution due to aircraft engines emitting heat and gases that contribute to global warming, acid rain, smog, and ozone depletion. Air travel has increased considerably over the years, and therefore aircraft emissions have contributed to the build-up of greenhouse gases (GHG), with the resultant changes in weather patterns leading to global warming and environmental deterioration. Although aviation contributes to economic and environmental development, it is a double-edged sword because it is thought to be the most challenging industry for formulating sustainable policies, based on the direct conflict between environmental impacts and economic development. This chapter explores different types of problems associated with the negative impacts of aviation carbon emissions and the carbon footprint of tourism. The chapter will also reflect on policy, regulations, and governance approaches currently in place to combat these negative impacts as well as challenges involved in policy interventions.