How Evia Aero Will Reduce Value Chain Emissions

Evia Aero and Britten-Norman have joined forces to confront the complex challenge of Scope 3 emissions, specifically those arising indirectly across the aviation value chain.

By focusing on procurement and innovation, this partnership represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable aviation and sets a new benchmark for green practices in the industry.

Aircraft acquisition drives sustainable procurement

At the core of the partnership is Evia Aero’s purchase of 15 Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.

This acquisition directly targets emissions within the 'Purchased Goods and Services' category of Scope 3, which includes emissions tied to the production and supply of aircraft.

Manufacturing processes for aircraft contribute significantly to the overall carbon footprint, making sourcing decisions crucial in a sustainability strategy.

By selecting the proven Islander design, Evia Aero and Britten-Norman aim to streamline manufacturing and optimise emissions reduction.

These aircraft also form the foundation for introducing future technologies designed to minimise environmental impact, underscoring the importance of integrating sustainable procurement practices into broader Scope 3 strategies.

Pioneering zero-emission aviation

Central to the collaboration is the planned retrofitting of the Islanders with hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion systems.

This addresses the Scope 3 'Use of Sold Products' category, which encompasses the emissions generated when a product is in operation. In aviation, this is one of the most significant contributors to indirect emissions.

This conversion aligns with a growing industry shift towards climate-neutral technology, creating a roadmap for how companies can balance operational needs with environmental stewardship.

Britten-Norman’s CEO William Hynett says:  "The adaptability of the Islander aircraft, combined with our commitment to a green future, provides us an opportunity to lead the way in sub-regional, zero-emission aviation."

By ensuring these aircraft transition seamlessly into zero-emission platforms, the partnership demonstrates how procurement decisions, paired with cutting-edge innovation, can tackle long-term sustainability challenges.

Green energy and regional impact

Another innovative aspect of the partnership is Evia Aero’s commitment to localised, green energy solutions for regional air travel. This initiative targets the 'Fuel-and Energy-Related Activities' category of Scope 3 emissions, addressing the carbon footprint tied to fuel production and distribution.

Evia Aero plans to generate renewable energy at regional airports, cutting out emissions associated with transporting and refining fuel.

This approach not only reduces the environmental impact of air travel but also sets the stage for a more decentralised and sustainable energy model in aviation.

By focusing on smaller, regional routes, Evia Aero supports point-to-point travel with minimal emissions, highlighting the potential for localised procurement to drive broader industry change.

Redesigning aircraft for longevity and efficiency

The collaboration also involves a redesign of the Islander’s cabin interior, addressing emissions linked to the 'End of Life Treatment of Sold Products' category. This category accounts for the environmental impact of decommissioning and disposing of aviation materials.

The new design prioritises passenger comfort, functionality and sustainability, ensuring compatibility with zero-emission technologies.

Florian Kruse, CEO of Evia Aero, explains: "With a revised customised cabin design, we will make the aircraft available to our customers."

The redesign highlights how thoughtful procurement decisions can influence an aircraft’s entire lifecycle, aligning with sustainability goals from manufacturing to disposal.

Transforming business travel and the value chain

The partnership also sets out to offer a sustainable alternative for regional business travel.

With many organisations seeking to reduce their carbon footprints, Scope 3 emissions from employee travel remain a significant challenge. By providing climate-neutral travel options, Evia Aero and Britten-Norman aim to support companies in meeting their environmental targets.

This initiative aligns with global efforts to mitigate indirect emissions across the aviation value chain. As the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) highlights, Scope 3 emissions often account for the majority of greenhouse gas outputs within the sector.

Deliveries of these aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2027 and the companies' shared focus on zero-emission platforms reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability. Evia Aero and Britten-Norman are not only responding to today’s environmental challenges but also shaping the future of green aviation.

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