Delhi Airport, operated by the GMR group, has set a new benchmark in environmental sustainability by becoming the first airport in India to secure the prestigious Level 5 Net Zero Carbon Emission certification. This certification, awarded under the Airport Council International’s (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme, marks a significant milestone in the airport’s ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
The achievement is a testament to Delhi Airport’s strategic focus on sustainability. Having attained carbon-neutral status in 2016 and Level 4+ accreditation in 2020, the airport has now reached the highest level of carbon management under ACI’s ACA framework. This latest certification acknowledges Delhi Airport’s success in achieving a net zero carbon balance for its direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2) and its proactive efforts to influence and report on indirect emissions (Scope 3). Delhi Airport’s journey to this milestone reflects its ambitious sustainability strategy. Initially aiming to become a “Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport” by 2030, the airport has realised this goal well ahead of schedule. The achievement is attributed to a series of innovative measures including the integration of renewable energy sources, the development of green infrastructure, the promotion of electric vehicles, and the implementation of zero waste-to-landfill programmes.
The CEO of Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) remarked, “Achieving carbon-neutral status in 2016 and advancing to Level 4+ in 2020 was merely the beginning of our sustainability journey. The attainment of Level 5 net zero emission accreditation in 2024 is a testament to our dedication to ongoing improvement and environmental stewardship. As we continue to confront the challenges posed by climate change, we remain committed to further reducing our carbon footprint and exploring sustainable aviation fuel options to address Scope 3 emissions.”
This accolade not only highlights Delhi Airport’s leadership in environmental management but also sets a new standard for airports across the nation and globally. The airport’s success underscores the potential for infrastructure projects to align with ambitious climate goals, demonstrating that significant progress in sustainability can be achieved through persistent innovation and commitment.
