Dubai International (DXB) has reached a notable sustainability milestone by earning the Level 4 “Transformation” accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) through the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program. As of September 2024, this places DXB among the top 5% of airports globally to achieve such recognition. This accreditation signifies DXB’s commitment to advancing sustainability in alignment with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 goals.
Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
The Level 4 “Transformation” certification is awarded to airports actively reducing absolute emissions while driving systemic change across their operations and partners. By implementing strategies that cut emissions and conserve resources, DXB supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision. Dubai Airports is focusing on decarbonisation and operational efficiency, utilizing innovative technologies to reduce environmental impact and lead sustainable airport practices.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, noted, “Achieving Level 4 ‘Transformation’ accreditation underscores our commitment to integrating sustainability into everything we do at Dubai Airports. This recognition highlights our progress in reducing our carbon footprint and our partnerships’ role in driving wider change in the aviation sector.”
Strategic Initiatives Driving DXB’s Sustainability Milestone
Dubai International has launched several key initiatives to advance its sustainability mission. Collaborations with dnata and Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) are a significant step in this journey. Through these partnerships, dnata’s airside fleet has transitioned to biodiesel, cutting over 3,500 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Further partnerships include Etihad Energy Services, focusing on energy efficiency by retrofitting buildings, upgrading lighting, and integrating solar technology. DXB’s collaboration with the BEEAH Group has reduced landfill waste by 60% through a pioneering food waste treatment plan. Another impactful initiative is the ‘Follow the Greens’ system, which optimises aircraft taxiing, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Setting the Standard in Sustainable Airport Operations
Dubai Airports has also formed the oneDXB Sustainability Alliance, a network of airport partners, to explore and implement over 180 additional decarbonisation projects. This alliance strengthens the commitment to sustainability while setting new industry standards for environmentally responsible airport operations.
Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, praised DXB’s efforts: “Dubai Airports’ leadership in efficient carbon management sets a regional benchmark. Their sustainability practices align with our industry’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.”
With initiatives across its operations and partnerships, Dubai Airports is committed to establishing a sustainable aviation model that influences the industry and achieves long-term environmental impact. Through a holistic approach to carbon reduction, DXB is setting new benchmarks for sustainable airport operations, advancing the UAE’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.