Indian Airport Leads the Way in Airport Sustainability
GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL) has proudly announced its attainment of the prestigious Level 4+: Transition accreditation from the Airports Council International (ACI), marking a significant achievement in the airport's commitment to global climate goals and carbon management.
This remarkable recognition represents the highest accolade within the esteemed Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme, initially introduced by Airports Council International (ACI) EUROPE in 2009.
The ACA programme is the gold standard for evaluating an airport's endeavours in carbon emission management and reduction, comprising six distinct levels: Level 1: Mapping, Level 2: Reduction, Level 3: Optimisation, Level 3+: Neutrality, Level 4: Transformation, and the pinnacle, Level 4+: Transition.
Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport, expressed the significance of this achievement in the context of climate change as one of the most pressing global challenges.
Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), commended GMR Hyderabad International Airport's exemplary efforts in carbon emission reduction and positioning itself as a leader in efficient carbon management. He highlighted the encouraging trend of airports worldwide making substantial strides in addressing climate change's challenges.
The international aviation industry, guided by the 41st ICAO Assembly, has adopted a Long-term Global Aspirational Goal (LTAG) of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with the UNFCCC Paris Agreement's temperature goals. From 2012 to 2023, GMR Hyderabad International Airport met the stringent criteria across various levels to attain Level 4+: Transition.
This journey toward carbon neutrality began in 2009, following the airport's Silver rating in 'Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design' (LEED) certification in 2008.
The airport collaborated closely with its ecosystem stakeholders, continuously tracking progress towards net zero carbon emissions.
Noteworthy measures include establishing a LEED-certified passenger terminal, cultivating green cover acting as a carbon sink, adopting an electric ground power supply for aircraft, operating a 10MWp solar power plant, optimising electricity consumption, implementing energy-efficient airfield lighting systems, introducing rapid exit taxiways, and incorporating sustainable practices across various operational aspects.
The airport's future endeavours in the quest for net zero carbon emissions will involve increased reliance on renewable energy sources and electric vehicles, the use of low-global-warming-potential refrigerants, and collaboration with airlines to explore sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
Recognised with multiple awards, including the "National Energy Leader Award," the "Excellency-Gold Award," and the "Certificate of Merit" for energy conservation, GMR Hyderabad International Airport stands as a beacon of excellence in environmental sustainability.
As a member of Airports Council International (ACI), the airport plays a pivotal role in shaping global airport standards, collaborating with international organisations like ICAO, and advocating for excellence in the aviation industry.
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Source: GMR Hyderabad
