The aviation industry continues to make strides in addressing climate change, and Swedavia is at the forefront of these efforts. This Swedish airport operator has consistently demonstrated leadership in sustainability, with groundbreaking achievements under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) framework.
Setting New Benchmarks in Carbon Accreditation
By December 2023, Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Ronneby Airport reached Level 5 ACA certification, the highest tier in the program. This milestone follows similar achievements at Göteborg Landvetter and Malmö airports, solidifying Swedavia as the operator with the most airports globally at this advanced level of accreditation.
The ACA framework, developed by Airports Council International (ACI), evaluates and certifies airports for their efforts to manage and reduce carbon emissions. Level 5 certification signifies net-zero emissions in airport operations while involving the entire value chain in climate transition initiatives. Swedavia’s success here is a testament to its comprehensive and collaborative approach to environmental responsibility.
A Bold Vision for the Future
Swedavia’s environmental strategy is ambitious. By 2026, the company aims to bring all ten of its airports to Level 5 ACA certification. The next targets include Kiruna, Visby, and Åre Östersund airports, which are expected to achieve this milestone by spring 2025.
This long-term plan underscores Swedavia’s commitment to sustainable aviation, making it a model for other operators navigating similar environmental challenges.
Pioneering Fossil-Free Airport Operations
Beyond certifications, Swedavia has implemented measures that position it as a leader in sustainable practices. Since 2020, all Swedavia airports have operated using fossil-free energy, a world-first achievement.
The company’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) incentive program further promotes the use of cleaner fuels. By covering up to 50% of the additional costs for airlines refueling with SAF, Swedavia encourages broader adoption of this critical technology in reducing aviation emissions.
Exploring Electric Aviation
Swedavia is also a key player in the electrification of aviation. Initiatives like the Green Flyway at Åre Östersund Airport serve as international test centers for electric aircraft and drones. These projects are crucial in building the infrastructure needed for the future of electric flight.
Therese Forsström, Head of Swedavia’s Environmental Department, highlights the significance of early partnerships in achieving environmental goals. Swedavia’s legacy of climate-neutral operations since 2006 and fossil-free operations since 2020 exemplifies this proactive approach.
Industry Recognition
Swedavia’s environmental initiatives have earned international recognition. In 2023, Göteborg Landvetter Airport received high commendation in the Eco-Innovation Award. Such accolades reflect the organization’s role as a pioneer in operating airports with minimal environmental impact.
Leading the Charge for Sustainable Aviation
As the aviation sector faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, Swedavia offers a roadmap for integrating sustainability into operations. From fostering collaboration across the aviation ecosystem to setting and achieving ambitious targets, the company demonstrates how environmental responsibility can align with operational excellence.
At VURDHAAN, we recognize the importance of such efforts in driving the industry toward meaningful change. With deep expertise in sustainable practices across transport sectors, VURDHAAN remains active in supporting aviation leaders to navigate frameworks like ACA, ensuring that sustainability goals are both attainable and impactful.
Swedavia’s journey proves that the shift to a sustainable future is achievable—and necessary. By leading the charge, they inspire airports worldwide to take bold steps in addressing the challenges of climate change.