European airports have pledged a “renewed and enhanced commitment” to net zero carbon emissions
More airports have committed to achieving decarbonisation for emissions under their control by 2050, according to industry body ACI Europe.
A total of 57 airports have added their names to the group’s net zero resolution in the past 12 months.
This means that the total number of airports individually committed to net zero carbon emissions in Europe has risen to 324 in 38 countries – accounting for 76% of the continent’s passenger traffic.
A total of 48 airports have advanced their target over last year’s pledge, while 132 are now committed to reaching net zero by 2030 or earlier, including Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Leeds Bradford and London City.
ACI Europe director general Olivier Jankovec claimed that the European airport industry is “embracing decarbonisation on an unprecedented scale”.
The body’s net zero resolution, launched in 2019, has become a reference point for airports’ commitments and tangible progress in reaching net zero carbon as fast as possible.
Jankovec added: “As we reaffirm our resolution today (Tuesday), it is important to underline that no airport wavered in their resolve to face deep business transformation – all previous signatories reaffirmed their pledge and some 50 more joined for the first time this year.
“Over 130 airports are now set to reach net zero by 2030 or earlier, making a significant contribution to the EU goal of cutting CO2 emissions by 55% in that timeframe.
“Of course this commitment doesn’t appear out of thin air. It is underpinned by the fact that the majority of airport signatories are already delivering tangible carbon reductions year after year within the global carbon management standard for airports – Airport Carbon Accreditation.
“With its six levels of accreditation, the programme provides a rigorous structure to more sustainable operations for airports of all sizes and locations – and accountability for meeting these.
“I’m delighted to announce that in light of increased ambition from within the industry to reach net zero, we are now working on the foundations of a new level to stretch these ambitions yet further. Watch this space.”