Sustainability in the airport sector is a growing concern, and reducing carbon emissions has become a global priority. Brazil has stood out in South America for its progress in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) Program, both in terms of the number of accredited airports and the diversity of certification levels achieved. What is driving this prominence and how is Brazil expanding its carbon management practices in the airport sector? Below, we analyze the current scenario and the prospects for expansion.
Analysis and Expansion of Accreditation in Brazil
During the XXI SITRAER (Air Transportation Symposium), representatives of To70 Brasil, including the company’s manager in the country and one of its employees, presented the article “Comparative Analysis of Carbon Accreditation in South American Airports: Focus on Brazil and Expansion Perspectives”. The study presented a comprehensive analysis of carbon accreditation among airports in South America, with an evaluation by airport size and passenger demand at accredited airports.
Brazil leads South America in the Airport Carbon Accreditation Program, with 9 of the 22 accredited airports in the region. These airports have a variety of certifications, ranging from initial to advanced levels. This leadership is due, in part, to the strong performance of operators such as Zurich Airport Brasil, BH Airport, Vinci Airports, Rio Galeão, Inframerica and Infraero, which have promoted the adoption of robust carbon management practices.
In addition, these and other concessionaires are also expanding their carbon management initiatives, adhering to programs such as the GHG Protocol’s Brazilian Public Registry, which allows for transparent monitoring of emissions, and participating in awards such as Sustainable Airports, promoted by the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). These actions show a broader effort in the sector to align with global decarbonisation targets and contribute to more sustainable aviation in Brazil.
Despite this progress, there is still enormous potential for growth. With 504 public aerodromes, of which 63 are operationally certified and another 22 are in the process of being certified by ANAC, many airports can benefit from the ACA program. The expansion of airport concessions and re-bidding are factors that should accelerate this uptake, further expanding Brazil’s presence on the international airport sustainability scene.
To70 consulting in the ACA Program
To70 Brasil is currently assisting eight Brazilian airports in the ACA Program certification process. Three of these airports are advancing to level 4 (Transformation), which requires not only emissions management, but also the absolute reduction of emissions in partnership with third-party operations. This level reflects a profound operational change to achieve decarbonisation goals.
In addition, another five airports are entering the program at level 1, which marks the first step in monitoring and managing their carbon footprints. To70 provides technical advice to help these airports develop emissions inventories, identify reduction opportunities, and prepare for more advanced levels of certification, aligning their operations with global sustainability best practices.
To wrap up
Brazil has shown a significant commitment to decarbonising the airport sector, leading South America in terms of airports accredited by the ACA Program. The growing participation of airports in the program reflects an expansion trend that is expected to intensify in the coming years, driven by the entry of new operators and the strengthening of concessions.
To70 Brasil will continue to play a leading role in this movement, providing expertise and innovative solutions to support airports on their journey towards emissions reduction and carbon certification. By doing so, To70 contributes directly to the development of more sustainable and efficient aviation in Brazil and throughout South America.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Professional with a career in Environmental Engineering, focusing on Environment and Sustainability, with 5 years’ experience in aspects inherent to environmental management and airport operations. During his work with the airport operator, he helped develop a tool for calculating the carbon footprint and controlling evidence, which was recognized and awarded by ACI/LAC. At To70, he focuses on Net Zero and ESG roadmaps, as well as supporting ACA program accreditations.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Professional with a career built in the Engineering and Commercial areas, working in national and multinational companies, with an emphasis on developing new businesses. Civil Engineer with over 12 years of professional experience in the areas of Projects, Supervision and Management of Infrastructure Works. Worked on over 50 airport projects in Brazil and was responsible for opening a branch of Dynatest International in Brazil. He was Global Vice President of Business Unit at Future Motion. Country Manager at To70 Brazil.
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