The low-cost airline Mango has joined the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Carbon Offset Program with a new R6 “green fee” option on their flights, which aims to ‘neutralise’ their carbon offset by helping poorer communities gain access to clean energy sources.
The Mango voluntary offset program is launched on Wednesday, 17 December, with a flat-rate “Green Fee” of R6 which is payable as an extra option for any flight booked on the airline’s network.
With the contribution made, the carbon footprint of the flight journey will be ‘neutralised’ by helping various disadvantaged communities across South Africa to gain access to clean energy sources.
Whilst focusing on the production of clean energy and consequent carbon offsets on the one hand, the project also contributes to job creation and skills development in communities on the other. The project aims to plays a role in the reduction of energy costs to disadvantaged South Africans.
Nico Bezuidenhout, Mango’s Chief Executive Officer says, “The participation of Mango in the IATA carbon offset scheme demonstrates just how deeply committed the aviation industry is to sustainability“. He says, “Mango is an airline for all South Africans and we are firmly positioning ourselves as the airline that aims to positively touch the lives of everyone in our country, whether they do business with us or not. Initiatives such as joining the IATA Carbon Offset Programme and the Climatecare Low Pressure Solar Water Heating project add to our impetus.”
Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General, also believes this plan is a “winning proposition for passengers, the environment and local communities”.
Source: Traveller 24
