Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR) and Delhi International Airport have reached significant sustainability milestones, solidifying their leadership in airport carbon management and environmental responsibility.

BLR Airport, operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), announced that it has become the first airport in Asia to receive the highest Level 5 accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI). This accreditation, effective from 5 May 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the airport’s sustainability journey.

The airport has achieved an impressive 95.6 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, surpassing its initial 2030 target by seven years. This progress is attributed to the airport’s transition to 100 per cent renewable electricity and the implementation of various sustainable initiatives, including green infrastructure and sustainable mobility projects. To offset its remaining emissions, BLR Airport has secured ACI-approved carbon units from verified carbon removal projects.

Similarly, Delhi International Airport, operated by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has set a new standard by becoming the first airport in Asia to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport status with Level 5 certification under ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program. This achievement is a result of the airport’s successful efforts to reach and maintain a net zero carbon balance for emissions under its control (Scope 1 and 2), while also making strides in addressing Scope 3 emissions.

Delhi Airport has achieved a 90 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions, with the remaining emissions offset through approved carbon removal projects. The airport’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its adoption of renewable energy, development of green infrastructure, promotion of electric vehicles, and implementation of zero-waste-to-landfill programs.

Both BLR and Delhi Airports are setting new benchmarks in the aviation sector, showcasing how environmental responsibility can be successfully integrated into large-scale operations.