Phnom Penh International Airport earns ACI Level 3 accreditation
Airport also awarded ISO 14001 certification
Phnom Penh International Airport has achieved significant milestones in its ecological goals, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and green practices.
Operated by Cambodia Airports, the airport has earned the prestigious Level 3 accreditation from the Airports Council International (ACI) under its Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. This recognition signifies that the airport has expanded its decarbonisation efforts to include carbon footprint emissions from commercial partners and airlines.
The ACA programme introduced in 2009 by ACI is designed to encourage airports to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
The programme features seven levels of certification, ranging from Mapping to Level 5, which involves the most comprehensive measures. Phnom Penh International Airport’s attainment of Level 3 represents a significant advancement, incorporating third parties such as restaurants, fuel suppliers, and airlines into its sustainability efforts.
ISO 14001 certification
Additionally, the airport has been awarded ISO 14001 certification, the global standard for environmental management, reflecting its comprehensive commitment to environmental stewardship. These achievements align with the broader ecological goals of Cambodia Airports, a subsidiary of Vinci Airports.
The airport’s recent upgrades include installing highly efficient chiller systems for central air conditioning, replacing traditional lighting with LED technology, and reducing diesel ground generator use. These measures contribute to lowering the airport’s carbon footprint and demonstrate a proactive approach to environmental management.
Under a public-private partnership established with the Royal Government of Cambodia in 1995, Cambodia Airports has a 45-year concession to develop and manage the country’s network of international airports. This includes serving Phnom Penh, the capital city, and Sihanoukville, a prominent port city and beach resort.
Joint venture
Cambodia Airports is jointly owned by Vinci Airports of France, which holds a 70% stake, and Muhibbah Masteron Cambodia, a Malaysian-Cambodian joint venture, owns the remaining 30%.
Cyril Girot, CEO of Cambodia Airports, highlighted the significance of these accomplishments: “Being a pioneer and leader in environmental actions is a crucial strategy for Cambodia Airports, powered by Vinci Airports.
“Achieving Level 3 ACA certification and ISO 14001 illustrates our strong commitment to addressing global climate change challenges. We are grateful to our staff and partners for their active involvement in these initiatives, which benefit our communities and enhance positive mobility.”
In addition to carbon reduction, Cambodia Airports has implemented a comprehensive waste management programme at Phnom Penh International Airport. This includes constructing a waste sorting facility, improving water consumption efficiency, and protecting natural resources and biodiversity. The airport has also introduced new waste bins to segregate recyclable and food waste better.
Phnom Penh International Airport’s environmental advancements are part of a broader strategy by Vinci Airports, which operates over 50 airports across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Vinci Airports has committed to achieving net-zero emissions across its entire network by 2050, further cementing its role as a global leader in sustainable airport management.
Featured image: Besides carbon reduction, Cambodia Airports has implemented a comprehensive waste management programme at Phnom Penh International Airport. Credit: Vinci Airports
