The decision to expand Heathrow has provoked a strong backlash across London. Vocal protesters include impressionist and comedian Alistair McGowan, actress Emma Thompson, and Mayor Boris Johnson.

With airlines offering flights for a pound and train fares often exceeding equivalent flights, it is hardly surprising that our airports are chock-a-block.

Turning London into a giant airport might be great for the economy, but a greener solution would be to manage demand for flights.

Pushing up the price of flying could deter unnecessary trips and might even spur a revival of some of our traditional holiday spots at the same time.

A study commissioned by the University of Oxford (Predict and Decide - Aviation, climate change and UK policy) concluded that 'a 10% change in the cost of air travel could be expected to change demand by 5 to 15%'.

Encouraging businesses to embrace web technologies could also help to reduce demand for flights. Why jet half-way across the country for a meeting when you can meet over the web from your office?

The government has shown where its priority lies, but the environmentalists aren't going to give up without a fight!

Links

• Predict and Decide - Aviation, climate change and UK policy (PDF).
• Greenpeace Airplot: Greenpeace have bought a plot of land in the proposed development area.
• HACAN Clearskies: an independent lobbying group which campaigns for quieter, cleaner and safer conditions for residents living under Heathrow's flight paths.
• 2M Group: a group representing the people affected by Heathrow expansion.