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BC AVIATION SECTOR TO FOCUS ON GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE NEXT MONTH
British Columbia’s aviation industry must understand and address the challenges...
September 20, 2007 By Carey Fredericks
Richmond B.C. – Aug. 13, 2007 – British Columbia’s aviation industry must understand and address the challenges of social, economic and environmental sustainability if it wants to grow and prosper in the years ahead, B.C. Aviation Council (BCAC) Chair, Ken McNicol, said today.
“Next month’s 69th BCAC annual conference in Richmond will tackle these challenges head-on,” said Mr. McNicol. “Sustainability is the most pressing issue facing the global aviation industry, so we are bringing together local and international experts to discuss what more we need to be doing to address it.”
Mr. McNicol said the B.C. aviation sector is an integral part of the national and international aviation industry. “Global trends and events impact us in B.C. as much as local issues, which is why we need to be informed and proactive in making changes that are good for our business, for society and for the environment.”
He said the growing debate over the aviation industry’s negative impact on climate change, and issues such as the current opposition to planned runway expansion at Heathrow Airport in the UK, is clear evidence that the industry needs to find acceptable solutions to the challenges it faces.
The conference, from September 12 -14 at the Best Western Hotel and Convention Centre in Richmond, will focus on three themes in three panel sessions:
PANEL ONE: CHALLENGING TIMES and EMERGING TRENDS
The aviation industry is facing challenging times as it copes with emerging environmental problems, climate change concerns, rising fuel costs and shifting consumer values. Speakers will offer views on issues and trends facing the industry.
PANEL TWO: BEST PRACTICES
Integration of sustainable practices in the aviation industry can make good business and environmental sense. Speakers will share their stories and views on the roles others can play.
PANEL THREE: THE WAY FORWARD
Given the impact of the air transport industry on global environments, disease and security, all sectors of the industry will likely need to demonstrate environmentally and socially responsible practices in the future. Speakers will provide big picture views on how the industry can prepare itself for what lies ahead.
