San Diego International Airport in California has been recognized for its efforts in reducing its carbon footprint and has been awarded the Level 2 certification by the Airports Council International’s (ACI) carbon accreditation program.
The Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program creates a framework that helps airports identify, manage, and ultimately reduce their carbon emissions. San Diego International has been certified at Level 2 reduction, meaning that the airport is actively implementing a carbon management plan and has reduced the emissions under its control.
Over the past two years, the airport has built highly energy-efficient facilities such as its rental car center, where it installed solar energy panels on the roofs and in the parking lots. San Diego also converted its shuttle fleet to alternative fuels and launched a carbon offset program to enable passengers to reduce the environmental impact of their travel. San Diego International is one of only 20 commercial airports in North America to successfully become certified through this program.
Thella F Bowens, president/CEO, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, the airport operator, said, “Sustainability is one of our core values at San Diego International Airport. We are proud to accept this recognition as validation of our continuing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.”
Kevin M Burke, president and CEO, ACI North America, said, “Airports are more than gateways to travel; airports are gateways to a more sustainable community.”
