Branson renews pledge on climate change

Sir Richard Branson, the chairman of Virgin Atlantic, has urged governments and airlines to work more closely in tackling the problem of climate change.

Speaking in Japan on the 20th anniversary of Virgin's London to Tokyo route, Sir Richard said that he understood that "there is a price to pay as an airline".

But he also urged heads of state to act more decisively, echoing a recent call by Giovanni Bisignani of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The Virgin boss had previously outlined his vision for a "carbon war room," which would function as an airline industry think-tank on environmental issues.

Without using the same terminology, he reiterated that stance by telling TravelMole: "All countries must support governments in making sure that there is a good treaty to reduce carbon output dramatically. We know there is a price to pay as an airline."

He added: "As long as all airlines pay the same, we are happy to pay."

Sir Richard also took a swipe at the controversial Air Passenger Duty (APD), which he said would hinder fundraising for green investments. Affiliate investment group Virgin Fuels claims to have earmarked £300 million for such projects already.

Last week, IATA chief Giovanni Bisignani praised the airline industry for setting ambitious targets on CO2 emissions, but called on governments to provide more support.

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