The Airports Council International (ACI) World, in conjunction with the World Economic Forum, launched the Airports of Tomorrow initiative Tuesday as a way to accelerate aviation’s decarbonization.
Made during the ACI Europe/ACI World Annual General Assembly in Barcelona, the initiative is designed to bring together public and private stakeholders in the aviation industry to drive change and maximize the potential for airports to become vehicles for environmental stewardship.
“The ACI World-World Economic Forum Airports of Tomorrow initiative will help airports transform from passenger hubs into energy hubs. It is an exciting time for airports: the energy transformation presents them with an opportunity to further lead and change the future of aviation for the better,” ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira said. “Decarbonization is a critical global issue that requires a global response. With the support from governments and the collaboration of stakeholders along the aviation ecosystem, including energy producers, policymakers, and the finance community at large, together we can make the net-zero airport transformation a success story, while enhancing a sustainable and resilient future for the Airports of Tomorrow.”
Officials said the initiative is built on infrastructure, sustainable aviation fuel, finance and innovation, each of which leaders hope will garner experts to exchange their knowledge-base with other industry leaders. Collaboration across stakeholders, including states, regulators, fuel producers and the financial sector, is crucial to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the group said.
“We see airports as strategically located epicenters of activity, where leaders from across the aviation ecosystem can convene and work together to transform the industry,” Lauren Uppink, Head, Climate Strategy, World Economic Forum, said. “If the right planning and investment decisions are made today, airports can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for aviation as well as other transport sectors. The Airports of Tomorrow initiative will help airports harness these opportunities, enabling them to fulfil their potential as clean energy hubs and standard-bearers for the net-zero economy.”