Jersey Airport has been awarded a higher level of international carbon accreditation as Ports of Jersey works towards a target of reaching net-zero emissions from its own operations by 2030.
The airport has achieved Level 4 “Transformation” under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme, putting it among 96 airports across Europe to hold the status.
The accreditation is awarded to airports that have moved beyond measuring and managing their emissions to set longer-term targets and work with airlines, tenants, suppliers and other organisations to reduce their wider environmental impact.
Ports of Jersey said the recognition followed a series of changes at the airport in recent years, including switching operational vehicles, equipment and terminal heating systems to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
The airport’s Fire Training Ground has also moved to renewable BioLPG, while energy-efficiency measures have included LED lighting, smart metering and building management systems.
Other measures recognised as part of the accreditation include the introduction of Continuous Climb and Continuous Descent procedures to support more efficient aircraft operations.
A Private and Business Aviation Decarbonisation Charge has also been introduced to help fund future carbon-reduction projects.
Ports of Jersey has set a target of achieving net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2030. These are the emissions covered by its own operations and energy use.
Sophie Alexander, head of sustainability and community at Ports of Jersey, said the accreditation recognised a change in the way environmental considerations were being incorporated into the airport’s operations.
“Achieving ACA Level 4 ‘Transformation’ is a huge achievement for Jersey Airport and a testament to the dedication of colleagues and partners across our airport community,” she said.
“What makes this accreditation particularly meaningful is that it recognises a fundamental shift in the way we think and operate.
“Sustainability is increasingly shaping our decisions, investments and future plans, while collaboration across the airport community is helping us tackle emissions beyond our direct control.”
Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI EUROPE, said the accreditation reflected “tangible actions and progress” in reducing emissions.
He added: “Its target of Net Zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2030, backed by improved energy efficiency and renewable energy generation, alongside close collaboration with airlines, ferry operators and suppliers, shows exactly the kind of ambition this level demands.”
Ports of Jersey said it would continue investing in low-carbon technology and energy efficiency as it works towards its 2030 target.
