The lecture covers the current state of knowledge on the potential impact of aviation on the environment, concentrating on climate change whilst also mentioning the local issues around airports. Due to the very long timescales for aircraft fleet turn over it is urgent to implement the necessary research to more fully understand the behaviour of the atmosphere and to be able to achieve substantial reductions in CO2 and other emissions in future aircraft design and operation. Whilst the current effect of aviation is relatively low, with the predicted growth rates in travel, the impact on climate change may become far more significant in the future. The lecture goes on to review some of the technology and regulatory options for the future of air travel.
Hamburg Aerospace Lecture Series --- Collection of Presentations --- http://www.AeroLectures.de