In a significant move toward environmental sustainability, Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) has partnered with Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East to develop a comprehensive Net Zero Roadmap. Through this collaboration, the airport aims to achieve Net Zero emissions, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in aviation.
The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ACI Secretary General Stefano Baronci and Athanasios Titonis, CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC, the private operator of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). The agreement, signed during the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation for the Asia-Pacific region, demonstrates a shared commitment to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint and preparing for a sustainable future.
A Tailored Approach to Sustainability
ACI’s Net Zero Roadmap initiative, endorsed by the globally recognized Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA), offers strategic guidance to airports, helping them design effective, long-term sustainability plans. This program supports airports like MCIA by providing customized frameworks for carbon footprint projections, asset and fuel management, and operational efficiencies. Additionally, it aids in capital expenditure (CAPEX) planning and connects airports with potential funding from global financial institutions.
By implementing the Net Zero Roadmap, Mactan-Cebu International Airport is positioned to move beyond its recent Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation and progress towards the prestigious Level 5 certification. Level 5 certification recognizes airports that have achieved net-zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 emissions while actively working on reducing Scope 3 emissions, making it a significant milestone in the aviation sector’s decarbonization journey.
Leading the Way in Aviation Sustainability
Both MCIAA General Manager Julius Neri and Aboitiz InfraCapital CEO Athanasios Titonis expressed their confidence in this partnership, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in shaping the future of airports. According to Neri, ACI’s expertise will enhance MCIA’s efforts to achieve environmental goals with greater efficiency, helping to solidify its role as a leader in sustainable aviation.
Titonis echoed this sentiment, highlighting the long-term impact the Net Zero Roadmap will have not just on MCIA but on the broader airport ecosystem in the Philippines. He aspires to inspire other airports across the country and the Asia-Pacific region to adopt similar initiatives, thus contributing to sustainable tourism and responsible environmental practices.
A Positive Outlook for Aviation’s Green Future
The signing of the MoU between MCIAA and ACI is a clear demonstration of the aviation industry’s growing commitment to sustainability. As airports worldwide face increasing pressure to minimize their carbon footprint, collaborative efforts such as the Net Zero Roadmap provide a solid foundation for meaningful progress.
At VURDHAAN, we are proud to support such initiatives through our expertise in programs like Airport Carbon Accreditation and SBTi. As active participants in aviation’s sustainability journey, we offer strategic guidance to airports and aviation stakeholders, ensuring they not only meet regulatory requirements but also contribute positively to a greener future.
Through the combined efforts of industry leaders, governments, and private operators, the future of sustainable aviation looks bright. With projects like the MCIA’s Net Zero Roadmap paving the way, the global aviation sector is one step closer to achieving its ambitious environmental goals.