More than half of global air traffic passes through airports that reduce their carbon footprint
A global report reveals sustained progress in airport decarbonization, with 590 airports certified and an 8.1% reduction in direct emissions
Airports Council International (ACI) released the annual results of its Airport Carbon Accreditation program, the global standard for carbon management at airports, for the period between May 2024 and May 2025.
During that period, a total of 590 airports in 91 countries and territories received accreditation, including 104 that joined for the first time. Collectively, these terminals handled 53.6% of global passenger traffic, confirming that more than half of all travelers worldwide pass through airports committed to managing and reducing their emissions.
In terms of environmental impact, accredited airports reduced their Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 542,559 tons of CO₂ equivalent, representing an 8.1% decrease. Furthermore, 21 airports achieved Tier 5—the highest level in the program—achieving net-zero emissions under their direct control and committing to achieving this target for Scope 3 emissions as well by 2050.
The report also highlights improvements in operational efficiency. Average emissions per passenger fell to 1.54 kg of CO₂e, while emissions per traffic unit decreased to 1.34 kg of CO₂e. These represent reductions of 30.6% and 26.8%, respectively, compared to the three-year moving average, reflecting sustained progress despite air traffic growth.
Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI Europe and Chairman of the program's board, highlighted the significance of these results in a context of growing tensions surrounding the climate agenda. He explained that decarbonization is no longer just a matter of efficiency, but a key condition for ensuring the sustainability of the airport business and future air connectivity.
With 16 years of experience, Airport Carbon Accreditation continues to consolidate itself as the leading international framework for emissions management in airports, with a certification system that covers seven levels and adapts to terminals of all sizes.
Source:
Airports Council International – Airport Carbon Accreditation Annual Report.