Athens International Airport – Certification in the last stage of “Airport Carbon Accreditation”: transition (
Transition
)
– Commitment to zero carbon emissions by 2025
Another important international recognition for the environmental efforts of Athens International Airport, in the framework of the voluntary programme for the Management & Reduction of Airport Carbon Emissions (Airport Carbon Accreditation) of the International Council of Airports of Europe (ACI Europe):
Specifically, after the stages “Mapping” (2009), “Reduction” (2011), “Optimization” (2014) and “Carbon Neutral Balance” (2016), AIA was certified in the last and most challenging stage of the programme, “Transition”, in the design of which it has been a pioneer and actively supports since its inception until today.
The criteria for certification
This important certification is the result of a series of actions:
– The Airport Company’s commitment to zero carbon emissions, in line with the international community’s target of no more than 1.5°C warming.
– Calculating emissions from even more sources, such as fluorinated gases used in AIA’s air conditioning facilities, machinery in construction projects, de-icing materials, etc.
– Drawing up an action plan in cooperation with Third Parties with targets and measures to reduce their emissions. |
After a long-term effort to reduce energy consumption from its facilities, which includes a series of interventions in its operation and investments in new and less energy-intensive equipment, AIA has managed to dramatically reduce its own carbon footprint by 60% from 2005 to 2022.
In the “Transition” stage, the AIA took another step forward by committing to zero carbon emissions by 2025. This commitment is consistent with AIA’s commitment to a zero carbon footprint by 2025 through its roadmap, Route 2025. As part of Route 2025, AIA also aims to become the first airport operator to cover 100% of its electricity needs with its own renewable energy production.
Already from March 2023, the new 16 MWp photovoltaic power plant (first phase of Route 2025) for self-consumption, which extends over an area of 210,000 sq.m. The production of the photovoltaic power plant of the first phase corresponds to 45% of the airport company’s electricity consumption needs, reducing indirect carbon dioxide emissions accordingly. The completion of the next phase by 2025 will ensure the production of 100% of AIA’s electricity needs for the next twenty years.
In addition, AIA is gradually replacing part of its fleet with electric vehicles, and is also studying the use of biofuel in heavy vehicles and equipment. Finally, the replacement of natural gas for heating, as well as for the production of hot water for everyday use, with non-carbon dioxide-emitting heating alternatives is being considered.
With its certification at the “Transition” stage, Athens International Airport is ranked among the top airports worldwide, demonstrating once again its commitment to the fight against climate change. The certification is valid until 2026.
Alongside its important role as a driver of economic growth, AIA is achieving a dramatic reduction of its ecological footprint, while seeking and achieving the environmental partnership of all stakeholders in the airport community.
*Note that airports such as London (Heathrow), Amsterdam (Skipol) and Dallas (Dallas Fort Worth) are in the transition phase, along with Athens airport.
