Over 400 Airports across the world have joined the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) scheme.

February 23, 2023. By Pause People Team

Developed in 2009, this is a long-standing and successful voluntary initiative that independently assesses and recognises the efforts of airports to measure, reduce and rebalance GHG emissions in line with a 1.5°C future 🛩️

The aviation industry plays a significant role in global emissions, and as sustainability becomes increasingly crucial, airports worldwide are taking proactive measures to reduce their carbon footprint.

One such initiative is the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme, a globally recognised program designed to support airports in measuring, managing, and reducing their carbon emissions. In this blog, we will explore the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme and highlight its benefits for airports and the environment.

Understanding the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme..

The Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme is an internationally recognised framework developed by Airports Council International (ACI). It provides a structured approach for airports to assess and manage their carbon emissions, focusing on four levels of accreditation: Mapping, Reduction, Optimisation, and Neutrality.

What are the benefits of an Airport Carbon Accreditation?

Implementing the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme offers numerous benefits for airports, including:

Environmental Stewardship: By participating in the scheme, airports demonstrate their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and addressing the environmental impact of the aviation industry. This helps protect the environment and supports global efforts to combat climate change.

Cost Savings: The accreditation process encourages airports to identify and implement energy-efficient practices, leading to reduced energy consumption and cost savings over time. Energy-efficient measures, such as upgrading lighting systems and optimising heating and cooling systems, can significantly contribute to financial savings.

Enhanced Reputation: Achieving accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme boosts an airport’s reputation as an environmentally responsible business. It showcases a commitment to sustainability and can attract environmentally conscious travellers, airlines, and stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement: The scheme promotes collaboration among airports, airlines, regulators, and local communities, fostering dialogue and knowledge sharing on sustainable practices. Engaging stakeholders in carbon reduction initiatives creates a sense of shared responsibility and encourages further innovation.

What is the Accreditation Process?

The Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme follows a structured process that includes:

Carbon Footprint Measurement: Airports measure their carbon footprint using internationally recognised standards and methodologies. This provides a comprehensive understanding of the emissions associated with airport operations.

Emission Reduction Strategies: Based on the carbon footprint assessment, airports develop and implement emission reduction strategies tailored to their specific circumstances. These strategies encompass energy efficiency measures, renewable energy integration, and sustainable transportation initiatives.

Independent Verification: Accreditation requires third-party verification of the airport’s carbon management and reduction efforts. This ensures transparency and credibility in the accreditation process.

Continuous Improvement: Accredited airports commit to ongoing monitoring, reporting, and reduction of their carbon emissions. They set targets, implement action plans, and strive for higher levels of accreditation, contributing to long-term sustainability.

The Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme provides airports with a structured framework to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon emissions. By participating in this program, airports can actively contribute to the sustainability of the aviation industry while reaping several benefits, including environmental stewardship, cost savings, enhanced reputation, and stakeholder engagement.

As airports worldwide embrace the Airport Carbon Accreditation Scheme, they are driving positive change and demonstrating their commitment to a greener and more sustainable future for the aviation industry.

The Team at Pause People Earth have over 12 years’ experience as accredited 3rd party GHG verifiers – recognised by ACA, CDP and the United Nations. We are one of only two accredited verifiers in the UK (and 25 globally!) accredited by the ACA scheme at the highest possible level of verification meaning we can support you across all application and verification levels 👏

If you are an airport or if you work closely with airports across the world and need support from our 3rd party verifiers, feel free to connect with us – we are here to support you!

"The process was seamless from start to finish and turned around in a timely manner. "

We were very happy with the professional and thorough support received by Pause People Earth during the ACA verification process. The process was seamless from start to finish and turned around in a timely manner. We will be looking for support in the future when we look to further our Airport Carbon Accreditation status.

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"There was robust communication from their team which helps one feel more relaxed that the process is being handled in an efficient and effective manner."

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