Edinburgh Airport advances to Level 4+

June 2, 2025

Edinburgh Airport has achieved Level 4+ in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, marking a major milestone in its journey toward net zero. Operated by VINCI Airports, Edinburgh Airport is committed to becoming net zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, and in Scope 3 emissions by 2045.

A key focus for Edinburgh Airport has been addressing Scope 3 emissions. The airport has published its first Surface Access Strategy and is actively working with airlines and partners to better understand science-based targets and the role of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in reducing emissions. In parallel, Edinburgh has made notable progress in operational carbon reduction. The rollout of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) across its airside fleet has already avoided 241 tonnes of CO₂e in 2024, and 20% of ground service equipment has now been electrified.

Further efforts include a switch to biopropane for fire training, removing PFAS foams, and the delivery of a 9.7MWp solar farm on the airfield, which supplied 21% of the airport’s electricity needs in 2024. The publication of a comprehensive Net Zero Strategy has helped chart a clear course for sustainable growth, supported by practical steps like procuring green tariff energy and using low-carbon anti-icing fluid. In addition, the airport has conducted a detailed analysis of its supply chain to better understand the carbon footprint of goods and services purchased.

Gordon Robertson, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer at Edinburgh Airport, mentioned: “Airport Carbon Accreditation is the only institutionally endorsed, carbon management certification programme for airports across the globe, and this accreditation further demonstrates the progress being made through our Greater Good sustainability strategy, which was recently refreshed to reflect the positive steps the airport has taken since it was launched in 2021.”

Find out more about sustainability at Edinburgh Airport here.