European Airports Commit to Net Zero Goals by 2050
Over 300 European airports have committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, as revealed by ACI EUROPE. This initiative highlights the sector's dedication to sustainability, with 303 airports outlining specific roadmaps towards this goal. These airports represent 80% of Europe's air passenger traffic, underscoring a significant industry shift towards greener operations. Additionally, 118 airports have set more ambitious targets to reach net zero by 2030 or even sooner.
The announcement builds on enhancements to the ACI EUROPE Resolution, which mandates that European airports attain net zero carbon emissions by 2050. First adopted in 2019 and updated annually, the Resolution now includes stricter criteria and more ambitious goals. A key amendment requires airports to publish their net zero roadmaps within a year, promoting transparency and accountability. As of now, the ACI EUROPE website features over 80 roadmaps from 303 airports across 36 countries.
The unified climate initiatives of the airport industry have yielded substantial results. The Airport Carbon Accreditation program recognizes 290 European airports for their carbon management efforts, with 47 meeting Paris Agreement compliance. In the latest program cycle (May 2022 – May 2023), these airports have collectively prevented the emission of 500,000 tonnes of CO2.
In December 2023, ACI EUROPE introduced Level 5 accreditation, setting a new standard for decarbonization. This certification requires airports to achieve net zero carbon balance for controlled emissions and enhance efforts across all emission scopes. Thirteen European airports have already achieved this new certification, marking a significant step forward.
ACI EUROPE and its member airports remain steadfast in their commitment to a net zero aviation sector, aligning with the European Commission's aim for a climate-neutral Europe by 2050 and the EU Green Deal. The industry calls for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders, including EU officials and national governments, to transition air transport to a sustainable, competitive net zero future.
