Impact Monitor’s framework and toolbox provide science-based information on the environmental, economic and societal impact of European aviation R&I, herewith identifying potential benefits or shortcomings of technological, operational or policy options as well as trade-offs between impacts. Consequently, this framework and toolbox support EC (especially DGs MOVE, CLIMA, ENV and RTD), not only in taking science-based informed decisions regarding a coherent prioritisation of aviation R&I and timely development of aviation technologies, operations and policies in all three pillars of Horizon Europe, but also in contributing to bridge the gap between European aviation R&I, regulatory framework and economic investments. In addition, science-based information also supports EC in ICAO Working Groups and other international regulatory agencies (particularly on climate neutrality by 2050 and European competitiveness). Similarly, Impact Monitor assists EU Member States and EASA in those ICAO Working Groups and international regulatory agencies.
Through its science-based information, Impact Monitor supports the efficient identification of the most promising (technical, operational and policy) options to develop and introduce safe, reliable and affordable low to zero-emission air transport for citizens and to concurrently ensure Europe’s industrial leadership is maintained and strengthened throughout the transition to a climate-neutral Europe. It would also be a major step forward in establishing common views on ways to make aviation more sustainable and overcome the current situation where studies from different stakeholders differ on (partly unpublished) assumptions and (partly lobbying) proposals for solutions.
Further, Impact Monitor helps to display to and to increase societal awareness of European aviation R&I. It adds to the societal acceptance and justification of the public research and innovation investments made by EC in aviation partnerships and projects in Horizon Europe.
So, Impact Monitor also helps in communicating their success achieved and to raise awareness to a wider public on their efforts in contributing to a sustainable air transport.
Moreover, further improving the aviation footprint increases public acceptance of air transport and of the research and innovation investments made through public funding.
Finally, the Impact Monitor capabilities ultimately contribute via EU and EU Member States’ aviation research policies to the obligations laid down in the first European Climate Law (i.e. reducing net emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 and Europe being the first climate neutral continent by 2050). This creates opportunities for innovation, investment and jobs. Most importantly, it yields better air quality and an improved health and quality of life for citizens.
