Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe Propel Africa’s Aviation Carbon Market Alongside the UK and Guyana as Sustainable Air Travel Enters a New Era. Could This Reshape Global Tourism?

Written By: Abhirup Gan

Abhirup Gan

I'm Abhirup Gan, a Mass Communication graduate and digital marketing professional. Driven by a passion for storytelling, I create insightful, research-led content that explores tourism trends, destination stories, and hospitality developments with depth and clarity. Through my writing, I hope to inspire readers to discover not only where to travel, but the stories, cultures, and experiences that make every journey meaningful.

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June 26, 2026 11:14 GMT+5:30

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Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe are taking a larger role in the future of sustainable aviation after officially joining the Aviation Carbon Market Compact, an initiative designed to expand the supply of high-quality carbon credits for international airlines. Their participation, alongside the United Kingdom and Guyana, increases the membership of the Supporting Alliance for CORSIA Eligible Emissions Unit (EEU) Supply to 50 entities, strengthening global efforts to support lower-emission international aviation while creating new opportunities for African tourism and environmental projects.

Three African Nations Join a Growing Global Alliance

The latest agreement marks an important development for Africa’s aviation and climate sectors.

By signing the Aviation Carbon Market Compact, Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe become part of an international alliance supporting the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), established by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The initiative helps participating countries develop high-quality carbon credit projects that airlines can purchase to meet international emissions requirements.

What Is CORSIA?

CORSIA is a global programme created by ICAO to help reduce the environmental impact of international aviation.

Under the scheme, airlines operating international flights are required to offset eligible carbon emissions by purchasing certified carbon credits generated through approved environmental projects.

As demand for eligible credits increases, countries with well-managed forests, biodiversity programmes, renewable energy projects and conservation initiatives are expected to play a growing role in supplying these credits.

Why Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe Matter

The three African countries possess extensive natural resources that support carbon credit development.

Madagascar is internationally recognised for its biodiversity and protected forests, while Zambia and Zimbabwe are home to large conservation areas, wildlife habitats and community-based environmental initiatives.

These natural assets create opportunities for certified carbon projects that support both environmental conservation and economic activity.

Participation in the alliance also increases international visibility for each country’s sustainable development initiatives.

Tourism Could Benefit from Stronger Sustainability Credentials

The agreement has potential implications beyond aviation.

As more travellers seek environmentally responsible destinations, countries demonstrating commitments to sustainability may strengthen their tourism appeal.

Madagascar’s unique ecosystems, Zambia’s national parks and Zimbabwe’s wildlife attractions already attract international visitors. Greater involvement in global sustainability initiatives complements these tourism assets while supporting long-term conservation efforts.

Improved environmental credibility may also encourage partnerships between airlines, tourism boards and conservation organisations.

Growing Demand for Carbon Credits

The aviation industry is preparing for a significant increase in demand for eligible emissions units.

According to industry estimates, airlines participating in CORSIA are expected to require between 225 million and 250 million eligible emissions units before the programme’s mandatory implementation phase in 2027.

This growing demand has encouraged countries around the world to strengthen their carbon market frameworks and develop verified environmental projects capable of supplying international aviation.

Southern Africa Continues Regional Cooperation

The latest announcement also builds upon wider regional collaboration.

Earlier this year, several Southern African countries launched the Southern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, aiming to strengthen regional cooperation on carbon trading and climate finance initiatives.

The new commitments by Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe further reinforce this collaborative approach while supporting the region’s participation in international climate and aviation programmes.

How Sustainable Aviation Supports Tourism

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of international tourism.

Airlines, airports and destinations are investing in measures designed to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining global connectivity.

For tourism destinations, participation in recognised sustainability initiatives can complement conservation efforts, strengthen destination branding and support long-term visitor growth.

As travellers increasingly consider environmental factors when planning holidays, stronger sustainability programmes may contribute to broader tourism development across Africa.

What Travellers Should Know

Although the Aviation Carbon Market Compact does not directly change travel procedures, it forms part of wider efforts to improve the environmental sustainability of international aviation.

Travellers visiting Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe can continue enjoying the countries’ renowned wildlife, national parks and natural landscapes while broader initiatives support long-term conservation and sustainable tourism.

The agreement also highlights Africa’s expanding participation in international aviation and climate initiatives.

Key Statistics

• Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe join the Aviation Carbon Market Compact.
• United Kingdom and Guyana have also become new participants.
• Supporting Alliance for CORSIA EEU Supply now includes 50 entities.
• The aviation sector is expected to require 225–250 million eligible emissions units before 2027.
• CORSIA mandatory phase begins in 2027.

Chronological TrackerThe

• Southern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance was launched earlier in 2026.
• Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe sign the Aviation Carbon Market Compact.
• Alliance membership reaches 50 entities.
• 2027 – CORSIA mandatory phase begins for participating airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Aviation Carbon Market Compact?

It is an international initiative supporting the development of high-quality carbon credits for airlines participating in ICAO’s CORSIA programme.

2. Which African countries have joined?

Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe are the latest African participants.

3. How could tourism benefit?

Stronger sustainability initiatives can support conservation, enhance destination reputation and complement long-term tourism development.

Important Dates

• 2026 – Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe join the Aviation Carbon Market Compact.
• 2026 – Southern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance launched.
• 2027 – Mandatory phase of ICAO’s CORSIA programme begins.

Conclusion

The decision by Madagascar, Zambia and Zimbabwe to join the Aviation Carbon Market Compact marks an important step in Africa’s growing role within sustainable aviation. By supporting the supply of high-quality carbon credits under ICAO’s CORSIA framework, the three countries are strengthening links between environmental conservation, international aviation and tourism. As airlines prepare for increasing carbon offset requirements ahead of 2027, these initiatives are expected to contribute to long-term sustainable travel while reinforcing Africa’s position in the evolving global aviation landscape.