The Kenya Airports Authority has launched a strategic plan aiming to be the greenest airport operator in Africa. This move follows heavy criticism on the aviation sector’s contribution to climate change. The strategic plan will offer greener services to customers as part of KAA’s bid to strengthen its regional position.
“Aviation has been criticized as a major contributor to carbon emissions. This has lead to steady growth of airports embracing green energy,” said Jonny Andersen, KAA’s CEO.
Furthermore, KAA’s strategic plan revolves around environmental stewardship as critical strategic areas. The authority plans to implement a carbon accreditation program: a global accreditation status which recognizes airports’ effort to manage Carbon (IV) emissions.
Additionally, KAA will also acquire the ISO 14001-2015: Environmental Management System (EMS) Standard.
KAA will also undertake solar power and rainwater management programs across its network of airports. Such initiatives will put KAA at the forefront of championing renewable energy and water conservation.
SEE ALSO: KAA starts recruitment of a new CEO following Andersen’s resignation
Speaking on the new strategic direction, outgoing MD Jonny Andersen revealed that the authority intends to place Kenya at the heart of climate action.
“As Kenya Airports Authority, we would like to place Kenya in the center of this momentum with our goal to be the greenest airport operator in the region by the year 2022.”
Jonny Andersen, KAA outgoing CEO
Last year, ICAO President launched a 500kW solar generation facility to reduce aviation carbon emissions at Moi International Airport. According to KAA, this facility made Moi international airport the first airfield in Africa to install a solar system at an airport.
