Delhi airport becomes first to achieve net zero carbon emission status

Delhi airport has become the first in the country to achieve net zero carbon emission status under the Airport Council International’s (ACI) accreditation programme, according to a statement from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

The airport, operated by the GMR Group-led DIAL, is Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in the national capital.

Initially, the airport had set a target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030, but this goal has been met ahead of schedule through various initiatives such as adopting renewable energy, developing green airport infrastructures, and promoting electric vehicles, the release stated.

DIAL announced that IGIA is now the first airport in India to achieve the Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport status under the ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme.

“By attaining Level 5 net zero emission accreditation in 2024, we have once again demonstrated our commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability.

“As we confront the challenges posed by climate change, we are dedicated to further reducing our carbon footprint and exploring sustainable aviation fuel options to address Scope 3 emissions,” said DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar.

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The ACA programme offers a comprehensive framework for active carbon management at airports, encouraging best practices in carbon reduction and providing recognition for achievements. The programme includes five levels of accreditation, with Level 5 being the highest.

“By achieving Level 5 certification, Delhi airport has made significant progress in reducing its Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 90 per cent. The remaining residual emissions have been addressed through approved offset removals, fulfilling the stringent requirements of the ACA programme,” the release added.

ACI is a trade association of the world’s airports.