Friday, October 18, 2024

Taking Flight Towards a Greener Future: Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s Journey to Net Zero


COURTESY: https://aboitizinfracapital.com

In a significant milestone, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) to pioneer a pilot project aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for environmentally sustainable initiatives. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in MCIA's journey to achieving its Net Zero emissions goals. The MoU was signed during the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Region, in the esteemed presence of ICAO President, Mr. Salvatore Sciacchitano, and Secretary General, Juan Carlos Salazar.

With the aviation industry under mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, this partnership couldn’t have come at a better time. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is setting the stage for a greener future, not just for itself, but as a beacon for airports across the Philippines and Asia. The engagement with ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East is set to propel MCIA towards a sustainable future through the Net Zero Roadmap, a strategic plan endorsed by Airport Carbon Accreditation.



The Net Zero Roadmap is a visionary program designed to provide airports with strategic guidance on their sustainability journey. It offers a comprehensive on-demand service that complements Airport Carbon Accreditation, helping airports create structured plans and achieve carbon neutrality. The roadmap includes carbon footprint projections, governance frameworks, and recommendations across assets, fuels, and operations.

Additionally, the program offers guidance on CAPEX planning, implementation strategies, and offsetting measures. By connecting airports with global financial institutions, the roadmap also opens doors for potential funding, ensuring that sustainable initiatives are not just aspirational, but achievable. ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East is proud to spearhead this initiative, guiding members towards Net Zero emissions goals and preparing them for a sustainable future.



Athanasios Titonis, CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC, the private operator of MCIA, reaffirms his commitment to making MCIA a benchmark for sustainability among Philippine airports. He emphasizes that while there is still work ahead, the partnership with ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East gives MCIA the confidence to make a long-lasting environmental impact. This collaboration aims to inspire other airports in the Philippines and Asia to follow suit, driving sustainable tourism and ensuring responsible experiences for future generations.

Julius Neri, General Manager of MCIA, echoes this sentiment, expressing confidence in the partnership’s ability to accelerate MCIA's sustainability efforts. With ACI’s expertise, MCIA is poised to achieve the highest level of environmental efficiency, further elevating their efforts towards a sustainable future. This collaboration signifies the power of strong synergies and partnerships in creating an effective airport ecosystem.



Mactan-Cebu International Airport recently received Level 1 certification from Airport Carbon Accreditation, a globally recognized carbon management program for airports. The MoU for the Net Zero Roadmap program will support MCIA in progressing to Level 5, the pinnacle of the program. Achieving Level 5 requires maintaining a Net Zero carbon balance for Scope 1 and 2 emissions while actively addressing Scope 3 emissions.

This ambitious goal highlights MCIA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its determination to lead by example. By striving for Level 5 certification, MCIA is not only aiming to reduce its own carbon footprint but also setting a precedent for airports worldwide. This journey towards Net Zero is a testament to MCIA’s dedication to a sustainable future and its role as a leader in the aviation industry.


The partnership between ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East and Mactan-Cebu International Airport is a significant stride towards a sustainable future in aviation. With strategic guidance and a comprehensive roadmap, MCIA is well-equipped to achieve its Net Zero emissions goals and inspire others to embrace sustainability.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that airports are prepared for a greener future. The commitment to sustainability demonstrated by MCIA and its partners is a shining example of how the aviation industry can innovate and lead in the fight against climate change. With a focus on responsible tourism and sustainable practices, MCIA is paving the way for a brighter, greener future for all.

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