Dubai: DXB’s efforts to cut carbon emissions have been recognized with a Level 4 “Transformation” accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program.
As of September 2024, DXB ranks among the top 5% of participating airports worldwide to achieve this status.
The “Transformation” certification is awarded to airports that achieve absolute emissions reductions and drive systemic change with their stakeholders.
In strategic alignment with the UAE, Dubai Airports plays a vital role in supporting the country’s Net Zero 2050 strategy through its commitment to minimizing environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency. This commitment includes a comprehensive focus on decarbonization, resource conservation, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented that, “Achieving Level 4 ‘Transformation’ accreditation underscores our firm commitment to embedding sustainability at the core of everything we do at Dubai Airports. This recognition not only highlights our progress in reducing our own carbon footprint but also reflects the strength of our partnerships in driving broader, systemic change across the aviation ecosystem.”
Griffiths added that, “For us, sustainability is not a checkbox – it’s a long-term strategy that involves collaboration, innovation, and constant improvement. The responsibility we own goes beyond our operation; it’s about leading by example and embracing a culture where every stakeholder plays a part in creating a more sustainable future. Together, we are setting a new standard for what is possible in airport operations, as we continue to support Dubai’s and the UAE’s leadership in the global effort towards Net Zero by 2050.”
Stefano Baronci, Director-General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said that, “We congratulate Dubai Airports for its significant strides in reducing carbon emissions, setting a benchmark for airports across the region. By positioning itself as one of the leaders in efficient carbon management, Dubai Airports demonstrates a strong commitment to building a more sustainable future. Dubai Airports’ approach aligns with our industry’s collective vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.”
DXB has made significant progress through key initiatives and partnerships aimed at advancing sustainable aviation. A recent example is the collaboration with dnata and Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), which involves transitioning dnata’s non-electric airside fleet to a biodiesel blend, reducing carbon emissions by over 3,500 tons annually.
Other initiatives include a partnership with Etihad Energy Services to enhance energy efficiency through building and lighting retrofits, along with solar integration. Additionally, a collaboration with BEEAH Group has led to a 60% reduction in landfill waste through an innovative food waste treatment plan.
DXB’s adoption of the ‘Follow the Greens‘ system has optimized aircraft taxiing, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, the airport is actively engaged with ‘Airports of Tomorrow,’ a collaborative initiative by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and Airports Council International (ACI), aimed at steering the aviation industry toward net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The recently launched oneDXB Sustainability Alliance, a network of airport partners, is further advancing sustainability by exploring over 180 potential decarbonization projects. The Level 4 ACI Accreditation affirms Dubai Airports’ leadership in sustainability and positions DXB as a benchmark in the global airport community.