Newcastle Airport becomes first in Australia to achieve Level 4+ Transition in Airport Carbon Accreditation

February 7, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Newcastle Airport has successfully upgraded to Level 4+ Transition of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, becoming the first airport in Australia to reach this milestone.

To achieve Level 4+ Transition, the airport established an absolute emissions reduction target that covers all Scope 1 and 2 emissions, aligning with the objectives of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to less than 2°C. Additionally, it commits to offsetting any remaining Scope 1 and 2 emissions using internationally recognised carbon credits.

With decarbonisation deeply embedded in its operations and infrastructure development, Newcastle Airport achieved net zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024, six years ahead of its original 2030 target. This accomplishment was made possible through a commitment to renewable energy sources in partnership with an Australian renewable energy retailer and an offset programme with Tasman Environmental Markets, investing in native bushland regeneration projects in New South Wales.

Beyond its own emissions, Newcastle Airport has also taken significant steps to address Scope 3 emissions, including those from aircraft, passenger and staff transport, and third-party operators. A key milestone was achieving a 5-Star Green Star ‘Designed’ assessment for its international terminal build in September 2024, along with initiatives such as offsetting staff travel emissions and supporting electric vehicle adoption through infrastructure improvements.

The airport has also made strategic investments, including the conversion of loan funding to a Green Sustainability Linked Loan of AUD 235 million with CommBank and the integration of sustainability principles in the Astra Aerolab development, targeting high-efficiency building certifications. Additionally, the construction of a new premium covered car park with integrated solar panels, now supplying over 30% of the airport’s future energy needs, marks another significant step in reducing carbon reliance.

Reflecting on this achievement, Newcastle Airport Interim CEO Andrew Warrender stated: “It takes a long-term, sustained commitment from the entire businesses to be able to achieve an Airport Carbon Accreditation Level of 4+ which focuses on long-term emissions reductions and alignment with global climate goals. Level 4+ recognises that we are truly transitioning away from carbon reliance and embedding sustainability into our long-term future.”

Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, also commended the airport’s efforts: “We congratulate Newcastle Airport on its remarkable progress in reducing carbon emissions, setting a high standard for airports across the region. As a leader in efficient carbon management, Newcastle Airport exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainability and aligns with our industry’s collective goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.”

Discover more about the sustainable future of Newcastle Airport here.