Environmental achievement: Arar International Airport receives carbon accreditation

In a pioneering step reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Arar International Airport a historic milestone by obtaining the Carbon Accreditation (Level 4+) certificate issued by Airports Council International (ACI). This achievement is the first of its kind among airports in the Kingdom and the second in the Middle East region, solidifying the airport’s position as a model to be emulated in the civil aviation sector and the Airports Cluster II.

Civil aviation's journey towards a sustainable environment

The global civil aviation sector is undergoing radical transformations to reduce emissions and address climate change. This achievement is the culmination of extensive strategic planning efforts. Historically, airports were classified as facilities with a high carbon footprint, but international initiatives, such as the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program, have brought about a significant shift in this area. The Kingdom was quick to adopt these global standards, reflecting a strategic transformation in the management of the Saudi air transport sector's infrastructure to comply with stringent environmental standards and keep pace with global trends toward a green economy.

A comprehensive plan to reduce carbon emissions

Level 4+ is one of the highest accreditation levels awarded by Airports Council International (ACI), requiring airports to adopt stringent policies and procedures aimed at reducing absolute carbon emissions. The airport has developed a comprehensive carbon management plan outlining its emission reduction strategy and the necessary implementation measures. This plan includes supporting renewable energy projects, such as the construction of solar power plants, which effectively contribute to reducing reliance on traditional fuels, in line with international best practices and standards.

The impact of Arar International Airport's leadership at the regional and international levels

The impact of this achievement extends beyond the local level, encompassing significant regional and international dimensions. Locally, it reinforces Arar International Airport's among leading airports and reflects the commitment of the Airports Cluster II to adopting innovative solutions that minimize environmental impact. It also contributes to fostering a low-carbon future, aligning with the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Kingdom's Vision 2060 to achieve net-zero carbon neutrality by 2060.

Regionally, this accreditation positions the airport at the forefront of environmentally friendly airports in the Middle East, encouraging neighboring airports to accelerate their environmental plans and adopt sustainable practices. Internationally, a Saudi airport's commitment to the highest standards of the Airports Council International (ACI) reinforces the international community's confidence in the Kingdom's seriousness regarding climate change issues and demonstrates the ability of Saudi infrastructure to adapt efficiently and effectively to modern global requirements.

A global system for assessing environmental performance

The Airports Council International (ACI) Carbon Accreditation program is a globally recognized system that awards certifications for carbon management. The program independently assesses airports' efforts in managing and reducing emissions across seven tiered levels, reflecting each airport's progress on its ambitious journey towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions and ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment for future generations.