Port Authority Earns Global Recognition for Carbon-Emission Efforts

On Nov 22, 2017

In recognition of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, the Port Authority has received accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) for the agency’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions at all five of its airports.

The Port Authority achieved Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) for John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty, LaGuardia, Stewart International and Teterboro airports. With the accreditation, the Port Authority joins an elite group of airports in the United States and internationally that have earned the carbon management certification standard from the prestigious global organization.

Developed by ACI in 2009, ACA is the only globally recognized environmental standard for airports, and is designed as a roadmap for airports to reduce their CO2 emissions.  The Port Authority certification was not based on specific projects, but is the culmination of the agency’s sustained commitment to environmental programs.

“This recognizes our efforts to manage and reduce carbon emissions at our airports, and demonstrates proactive efforts to achieve sustainable growth and address the impact of aviation on climate change,” said Christine Weydig, director of the Port Authority’s Office of Environmental and Energy Programs. “The Port Authority is pleased to join an elite group of airports deploying best-in-class climate strategies worldwide.”

With its partners and stakeholders, the Port Authority has taken important steps to achieve sustainable growth, promote environmental efficiency in its operational activities, and reduce the impact of aviation on climate change.

Weydig cited a recent partnership with the New York Power Authority, the Federal Aviation Administration and JetBlue to electrify ground support equipment at JFK Terminal 5, one of many creative ways agencies, airports and airlines are working together to reduce airport emissions.

“We look forward to building similar collaborations with our partners at all of our airports to further drive regional emission reductions,” she said.

Other airport-related projects include requiring construction projects in development – including Terminals B and C at LaGuardia Airport and Terminal C at Newark Liberty Airport – to meet stringent Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards upon completion, and an increase in the use of electric ground service equipment and advanced systems to collect aircraft deicing fluid.

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