In a significant leap towards sustainability, Edinburgh Airport has become the first in Scotland to achieve Level 4 ‘Transformation’ in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) scheme. This recognition places Edinburgh among the highest globally in carbon management, reflecting its commitment to reducing absolute emissions and advancing towards a net-zero future.
Pioneering Sustainability in Aviation
Edinburgh’s Level 4 achievement is part of the ACA program, the only institutionally endorsed global carbon management certification for airports. It acknowledges the airport’s substantial progress in carbon reduction through its Greater Good sustainability strategy. This milestone was reached through:
- Publication of a Net Zero Strategy, outlining a clear plan for sustainable growth and an absolute reduction in direct emissions.
- Collaboration with airlines and campus partners to set science-based targets that align with broader emissions reduction goals.
- Supply chain mapping to monitor and mitigate Scope 3 (indirect) emissions, focusing on the carbon value of purchased goods and services.
This extensive work, combined with verified data, sets the foundation for Edinburgh Airport’s next target—ACA Level 4+ ‘Transition’, which includes offsetting any remaining carbon emissions through credible carbon credits.
The Role of Stakeholder Collaboration
Key to this achievement has been the strong partnerships formed between the airport, airlines, and its supply chain. As Jessica Briggs, Head of Sustainability at Edinburgh Airport, explains: “This accreditation marks a major milestone as we progress towards Net Zero emissions… We’d like to recognise the role our airlines, campus partners, and suppliers have played in this and thank them for engaging with us.”
Edinburgh’s sustainability progress is not happening in isolation. As part of the VINCI Airports network, which includes over 70 airports globally, Edinburgh benefits from a shared vision and collaborative environmental strategies. VINCI’s ambition is for all its European and UK airports to reach net-zero emissions by 2030, with four airports already reaching Level 5 accreditation.
VURDHAAN’s Commitment to Sustainable Aviation
At VURDHAAN, we are deeply engaged in helping airports and aviation stakeholders navigate complex sustainability frameworks like the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA). We provide expert guidance to support the aviation industry in reducing emissions, achieving regulatory compliance, and enhancing sustainability strategies. Through our tailored support, education, and implementation services, we help organizations adopt practices that align with global initiatives such as ACA, enabling them to reach their carbon reduction goals efficiently.
Looking Ahead
Edinburgh Airport’s achievement of ACA Level 4 ‘Transformation’ not only highlights the airport’s leadership in sustainability but also sets a powerful example for the wider aviation sector. With plans already in place to work towards ACA Level 4+ and ultimately reach net-zero, Edinburgh is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of green aviation. Through innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to reducing emissions, the airport is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future in air travel.
At VURDHAAN, we look forward to supporting more airports and aviation partners in their journey towards a sustainable, net-zero future.