
India’s aviation sector has made a significant leap toward sustainability as Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport and Delhi International Airport achieve Level 5 in Airports Council International’s (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation program. These airports are among the first in Asia to reach this prestigious level, placing them at the forefront of advanced carbon management in the region. Their achievements not only reinforce India’s commitment to decarbonizing air transport but also set a high standard for other airports across the globe.
A Milestone in Airport Sustainability
The Level 5 accreditation, the highest tier in the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, represents a comprehensive and mature approach to carbon management. Airports at this level must maintain a net-zero carbon balance for Scope 1 and 2 emissions while also making substantial progress in addressing Scope 3 emissions, which include indirect emissions from third parties such as ground transportation and supply chains.
Breaking Down the Achievements
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru: The Bengaluru airport has set a new benchmark by achieving a remarkable 95.6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions—seven years ahead of its original 2030 target. This success is the result of extensive efforts including a full transition to 100% renewable electricity, the promotion of sustainable mobility options, and significant investments in green infrastructure. Additionally, the airport has offset its remaining emissions through verified carbon removal projects and further compensates through in-house green landscape initiatives.
Delhi International Airport: Equally impressive, Delhi Airport has achieved a 90% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions. By procuring carbon offsets that meet the stringent standards of the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, the airport has compensated for its residual emissions. The airport is also focused on reducing Scope 3 emissions with a commitment to reaching net-zero by 2050, in alignment with global sustainability goals.
Driving Asia’s Decarbonization Efforts
Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, emphasized the significance of these achievements:
“The two Indian hubs have joined the group of global airports leading the charge in environmental sustainability. Their successes result from a long-term vision, a clear roadmap to net zero, and the dedicated efforts of their teams and industry partners.”
The recognition of these two airports highlights India’s growing leadership in sustainable aviation and serves as an inspiration for airports across Asia to embrace more ambitious climate action. As more airports in the region focus on sustainability, this milestone could pave the way for a broader shift toward greener operations in the aviation sector.
VURDHAAN’s Role in Supporting Sustainable Aviation
At VURDHAAN, we are deeply committed to advancing sustainability within the aviation sector. Our expertise spans critical areas such as Airport Carbon Accreditation, carbon management strategies, and the integration of renewable energy sources. We work closely with airports and aviation stakeholders to help them achieve their sustainability goals, whether through energy transition initiatives, green infrastructure projects, or comprehensive carbon reduction strategies. The success of Bengaluru and Delhi airports aligns closely with our mission to drive meaningful environmental progress in aviation.
The Road Ahead: A Greener Future for Aviation
The achievements of Bengaluru and Delhi airports demonstrate what is possible when ambitious goals are supported by strategic planning and industry collaboration. As the aviation industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, these airports have shown that it is not only feasible to achieve net-zero carbon emissions but also to lead the charge in setting new standards for sustainability.
With the growing adoption of carbon management practices across the sector, the path toward a more environmentally responsible aviation industry is clearer than ever. At VURDHAAN, we are proud to be part of this journey, providing the insights and solutions necessary to help our clients thrive in a greener, more sustainable world.
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