Sustainability Within the Airline Industry

Thursday, January 30 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET

REGISTER HERE!

Aviation contributes around 4% to climate change according to research that quantified aviation’s impact on global warming. Without intervention, this contribution will undoubtedly increase over the next decades. 

While 4% may seem like a relatively small contribution, all industries, including aviation, must be part of the solution to meet the Paris Agreement’s aim at limiting global temperature rise to well below 2℃. And, despite being one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize, the airline industry has an opportunity to implement innovative practices that will contribute to global emission reductions.

During a webinar on January 30, 2025, we will explore how the airline industry can reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact. We’ll hear from Porter Airlines, CGLR’s airline partner and an award-winning airline headquartered in the Great Lakes region, about their sustainability journey. This includes examples of its sustainable practices, including a case study on the company’s fuel efficiency initiatives.

SPEAKERS:

Brad Cicero, Director, Communications and Public Affairs, Porter Airlines

Brad Cicero has been involved with Porter since its start-up in 2006, where he has been able to influence the company’s brand from the outset. He is a company spokesperson and leads a team responsible for every aspect of internal and external communications, working closely with executives to promote initiatives, manage issues and engage team members. He also has oversight of the company’s ESG efforts.

Jacquelyn Platis, Senior Specialist, ESG, Porter Airlines

Jacquelyn Platis is an ESG expert with experience in responsible investment and corporate sustainability. She specializes in ESG reporting (TCFD, GRI, SASB), carbon accounting, and program development. Currently, she is guiding ESG initiatives at Porter Airlines, where she launched the company’s first holistic Sustainability Report and expanded Scope 3 emissions reporting. Jacquelyn has a strong track record of mentoring teams, driving ESG strategy, and enhancing stakeholder engagement, with prior roles at UN PRI and Morningstar/Sustainalytics. She is also active in ESG thought leadership and community involvement.

Dan Hunter, Manager Flight Technical, Dash 8, Porter Airlines

Dan has been with Porter for over seven years and brings a wealth of experience in flight operations, focusing on advancing the performance, safety, and efficiency of the airline’s fleet. In his current role, Dan leads technical initiatives that drive operational excellence and efficiency, with a special emphasis on fuel management and analytics. He implements industry best practices to reduce environmental impact and support sustainable aviation efforts. Dan also participates in various industry committees, including the Operational Measures Sustainable Aviation Task Force Sub-group, where he collaborates on advancing fuel-efficient flight practices across the industry.

MODERATOR:

Lora Shrake, Senior Program Director, Business and Sustainability, Council of the Great Lakes Region

Lora Shrake is the Senior Program Director, Business and Sustainability for the Council of the Great Lakes Region (CGLR), where she is working with a growing network of business leaders to connect across sustainability issues and support the advancement of cross-sector solutions. Some of the programmatic areas include circular economy, water stewardship, and climate change and decarbonization.

She also facilitates CGLR’s monthly business and sustainability webinar series, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and amplifying regional best practice.

About Porter Airlines:

Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger. Porter’s fleet serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto. www.flyporter.com