Green Airports and Key Sustainability Initiatives

As the aviation industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, the transition to sustainable airports represents a significant step forward. These airports prioritise the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and energy-efficient technologies to optimize energy consumption, reports Rasheed Kappan

- Rasheed Kappan

Go Green' is now an established protocol for new airports emerging across the world. But mounting climate change concerns have injected a sense of urgency and purpose into this trend. Echoing this, several Indian airports are now accelerating their key sustainability initiatives. Beyond visually striking green architectural tweaks, airport operators have their focus riveted on preserving the biodiversity and natural ecosystems in and around their premises.

In a telling testimony of this spotlight on sustainability, the 19th Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly in Riyadh had a tough time choosing a winner for its Green Airports Recognition Awards. Airports in the region showcased their compelling environmental initiatives that included wetland restoration and creation, balancing wildlife species with airport operations, prevention of wildlife trafficking, ecosystem restoration and carbon removal through natural means.

From an Indian perspective, the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) Bengaluru won a silver award for the category of airports handling between 15 million and 35 million passengers per annum. The Mangaluru International Airport won this award in the less than 8 million PPA category for its single-use plastic-free status. As Stefano Baronci, Director-General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East put it, the competition entries demonstrated a range of innovations from marine life conservation, and wetland restoration to wildlife species management.

SUSTAINABILITY VISION