Airports Council International (ACI) has released its annual report on carbon performance and participation trends for its global airport carbon management program, Airport Carbon Accreditation.
The report, covering the period from May 2024 to May 2025, highlights significant progress:
- 590 airports across 91 countries and territories were accredited, with 104 new airports joining the program during the reporting period.
- These accredited airports handled 53.6% of global passenger traffic, meaning over half of the world’s passengers traveled through airports actively managing and reducing carbon emissions.
- Collectively, accredited airports reduced 542,559 tonnes of CO₂e in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, representing an 8.1% decrease.
- By the end of the reporting period, 21 airports achieved Level 5 accreditation, reaching net zero for emissions under their direct control and committing to net zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050.
The report also showcased improvements in emissions efficiency. Average emissions per passenger dropped to 1.54 kg of CO₂e, while emissions per traffic unit fell to 1.34 kg of CO₂e—reductions of 30.6% and 26.8%, respectively, compared to the three-year rolling average. These figures demonstrate that airports are enhancing their carbon performance despite increasing traffic volumes.
Olivier Jankovec, Chair of the Airport Carbon Accreditation Board and Director General of ACI EUROPE, commented:
“These results are both reassuring and inspiring, especially in the face of the growing political pushback against climate action. Airports understand that their ability to operate and grow hinges on the decarbonization of aviation. For them, climate action is not just about improving efficiencies but also about securing their future and maintaining air connectivity. As we reflect on Year 16 of Airport Carbon Accreditation, the airport community’s commitment to managing and reducing carbon emissions stands stronger than ever. Airports worldwide are leading by example, offering a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change.”
Source: ATN.aero