Explore our sustainable aviation research
The Griffith Institute for Tourism (GIFT) works closely with Griffith Aviation to lead Griffith University’s research into sustainable, regenerative and low-carbon technologies and opportunities for the Aviation sector.
The research projects are transdisciplinary, examining and developing innovative solutions to help aviation businesses, including airlines, airports and the broader aviation ecosystem, to achieve their sustainable development and zero-carbon objectives.
The research is embedded in systems thinking, and is collaborative in design, partnering with aviation stakeholders across the globe. Our research works to identify and implement solutions to help future proof the sector and effectively manage sectoral risks and impacts.
Sustainable Development Goals
Griffith University is aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to advancing clean energy, sustainable communities, climate action, and global partnerships through research, education, and collaboration.
Aviation reimagined - Contextualising decarbonisation
Griffith University’s acclaimed webinar series, Aviation Reimagined – Contextualising Decarbonisation, explores the critical but often overlooked dimensions of aviation’s transition to a low-carbon future.
Covering economics, regulation, environmental science, and social impacts, the series brings together national and international experts. It is presented in partnership with Griffith’s Climate Ready Initiative, Griffith Institute for Tourism, and Griffith Aviation, featuring insights and ideas from national and international leaders in the field.
Airline initiatives to reduce climate impact
Airlines are facing mounting pressure from governments, the public and media to reduce their fast-growing CO2 emissions. Scientists have calculated that the ‘carbon budget’ that remains to stay safely within 1.5 degrees Celsius warming will be depleted in 8 years and 2 months (from November 2019), assuming current levels of emissions. Whilst airlines currently only represent 2-4% of emissions, their share will increase to well over 20% in 2050 should aviation continue on its current growth path.
Our researchers
Dr Emma Whittlesea
Dr Emma Whittlesea was previously the Program Director for Griffith’s Climate Ready Initiative and is now the Head of Partnerships at Stralis Aircraft. She has over 25 years’ experience working with communities and public, private, and not-for-profit sectors within the UK, Europe, and É«ÇéÍøÕ¾ to advance sustainability. Her professional focus is to enable climate action through effective partnerships and collaborative projects, with a particular interest in the advancement of zero emission travel.
Professor Susanne Becken
Susanne Becken is a Professor of Sustainable Tourism at Griffith University in É«ÇéÍøÕ¾ and the Principal Science Investment Advisor (Visitor) in the Department of Conservation, New Zealand. She has published over 120 articles on sustainable tourism, climate change and tourism resource use, and contributes to a wide range of national and international sustainable tourism initiatives, including through her role with Travalyst, Air New Zealand, EarthCheck Research Institute, and the New Zealand Tourism Data Leadership Group.
Professor Tim Ryley
Tim Ryley is Professor of Aviation, within the School of Engineering and Built Environment at Griffith University. With over twenty-five years of transport research experience, his current research includes environmental issues associated with aviation, such as the relationship between aviation and climate change. Tim’s research is typically inter-disciplinary and industry-linked; he has developed research and consultancy collaborations with many aviation industry stakeholders, including airport, airlines and Government bodies.