Elevating Sustainability: Airports Achieving ACA Level 5 Certification Lead the Way in Carbon Management
Key Ideas
- ACA Level 5 certification requires airports to achieve at least 90% absolute reductions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to a 2010 baseline, map Scope 3 emissions, and invest in carbon removal projects.
- The certification also entails establishing stakeholder partnership plans to drive emissions reductions, with airports like Christchurch Airport in New Zealand being pioneers in achieving this level.
- Christchurch Airport's sustainability efforts include a solar farm project to power 30,000 homes, ground-source heat pumps, and at-gate ground power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- ACA Level 5 signifies a significant shift in airport carbon management, emphasizing collaboration with third parties like airlines to address emissions comprehensively and enhance operational excellence.
The Airports Council International (ACI) introduced the most comprehensive level of the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program, Level 5, aiming for airports to achieve and maintain a net zero carbon balance. This level demands a 90% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from a 2010 baseline and thorough mapping of Scope 3 emissions, along with investments in carbon removal projects. Stakeholder engagement is vital, requiring airports to drive emissions reductions across the airport ecosystem. Notable airports like Christchurch Airport in New Zealand have excelled in achieving Level 5, showcasing leadership in sustainability. Christchurch Airport's sustainability framework includes innovative projects like a solar farm to power 30,000 homes and initiatives like ground-source heat pumps and at-gate ground power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The holistic approach of Level 5 fosters collaboration with third parties to address emissions comprehensively, highlighting a mature understanding of carbon management and operational excellence.
Topics
Aviation
Renewable Energy
Sustainability
Carbon Emissions
Net Zero
Climate Action
Emission Reduction
Airport Industry
Stakeholder Engagement
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