ACI-LAC promotes the circular economy in the airport industry

Airports are adopting circular strategies to transform construction, operations, and resource management, abandoning the traditional linear model. This report presents a structured framework for advancing this transition and optimizing the use of materials and water. It also highlights success stories from the region that have demonstrated how the circular economy can improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.

The document proposes a four-step framework for implementing the circular economy at airports:

Scope definition and commitment: Establish clear objectives and obtain commitment from stakeholders.

Mapping airport ecosystem flows: Analyze how resources are used and managed within the airport.

Identifying circular initiatives: Identifying opportunities to reduce, reuse, and recycle resources.

Implementation of circular initiatives: Put the identified strategies into practice and monitor their effectiveness.

Adopting these principles will not only contribute to environmental sustainability, but will also enable airports to reduce operating costs, improve their resilience to resource constraints, and foster innovative economic models.

"The circular economy is not just a trend, but a necessity to ensure the sustainability of the airport sector in Latin America and the Caribbean," said Dr. Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI-LAC. "This report provides tools and concrete examples for airports to adopt more environmentally responsible practices."

ACI-LAC invites industry players to explore the full report and join the conversation on how the economy 

Source: ACI-LAC.