Decarbonising airports in Latin America and the Caribbean through Airport Carbon Accreditation

Aviation has always been more than a mode of transport. It is a global network – one that connects people, cultures and economies on a scale that few other sectors can match. In Latin America and the Caribbean, this role takes on an even deeper significance. Our region is defined by vast distances, extraordinary geographic diversity and a profound interdependence among nations. Aviation, therefore, is a vital engine for development, tourism, economic activity and regional integration. But with the privilege of connecting comes a great responsibility – ensuring that growth goes hand in hand with decarbonisation. 

Across the world, airports are playing a central role in the transition to a more sustainable aviation sector and in Latin America and the Caribbean, we are seeing remarkable progress and inspiring examples. At the heart of this transformation lies Airport Carbon Accreditation, the only global carbon management standard for airports endorsed by international institutions including, among others, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  

A framework to help airports measure and cut carbon emissions 

Airport Carbon Accreditation offers a robust, independent and transparent framework for measuring, managing and continuously reducing carbon emissions at airports. The programme comprises seven accreditation levels, with Level 5 being the topmost, each representing a progressive commitment to carbon management. 

Over 600 airports have joined the journey to net zero 

In its 15th year, the programme’s accredited airports collectively achieved a reduction of over 1,037,000 tonnes of CO2 in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. This is equivalent to the energy needed to power more than 200,000 homes for a year. More than 600 airports in over 90 countries are now part of the programme, representing over half of global air passenger traffic.  

In Latin America and the Caribbean, this momentum is growing stronger every year. Currently, 103 airports across 16 countries are accredited – a 23% increase in just one year – collectively welcoming more than 430 million passengers annually. It’s worth noting that our region ranks as the second one worldwide with the highest number of accredited airports, surpassed only by Europe in total count. 

The airports that are leading the charge in Latin America and the Caribbean 

The examples speak for themselves. In Ecuador, Quito International Airport became the first in the region to achieve Level 4+. They aligned their carbon management strategy with the ambitious goals of the Paris Agreement and committed to fully decarbonising its operations by 2035. Galápagos Ecological Airport in Ecuador was the first airport in the world built under strict sustainability criteria. It integrates renewable energy, biodigesters – systems which break down organic waste – and educational initiatives to promote environmental awareness. 

In Brazil, Salvador Bahia Airport, operated by VINCI Airports, was the country’s first to reach Level 4+ and is working hard to achieve Level 5, the highest level of the programme. 

Mexico also stands out, with 45 airports participating in the programme and investments in solar power, electric ground vehicles and energy efficiency initiatives that reinforce the country’s commitment to sustainable airport management. 

Meanwhile, El Dorado International Airport in Colombia, at Level 4, is implementing large-scale solar energy systems, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure and strengthening sustainability practices across its operations. 

A proven catalyst for reducing carbon emissions 

Airport Carbon Accreditation is providing airports with a clear roadmap to identify and reduce emissions in line with global climate goals. In addition to enhancing reputation and stakeholder trust, participation in the programme drives real economic benefits through improved energy efficiency and resource optimisation, while opening the door to sustainability-linked investment opportunities. 

Participating in the programme signals leadership and accountability – it shows that airports are taking concrete, measurable actions to address their impact on the climate. This leadership creates a ripple effect across the region, inspiring others to follow suit. The dynamic is particularly strong in Latin America and the Caribbean, where collaboration and knowledge-sharing have long been key drivers of progress. 

Navigating to net zero requires investment, supportive regulation and modern infrastructure 

Decarbonising aviation is a long-term challenge that demands investment, supportive regulations and modernising infrastructure. Yet airports across Latin America and the Caribbean are proving their determination to innovate, collaborate and translate sustainability goals into measurable action through Airport Carbon Accreditation. 

With supportive policies, regulatory stability and greater access to financing, this progress can accelerate. Airports in our region are ready and ambitious, showing that growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. From the Andes to the Caribbean, they demonstrate that aviation’s true purpose – connecting people and possibilities – must also extend to protecting the planet. Through Airport Carbon Accreditation, airports are turning this commitment into tangible results, proving that the bridges we build today can lead to a sustainable future for generations to come.  

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*Disclaimer: The content of this article may not reflect the official views of the International Chamber of Commerce. The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and other contributors.