MCIA received the accreditation from Airports Council International Asia-Pacific and Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) after completing a verified greenhouse gas inventory and implementing carbon management measures that reduced emissions per passenger movement and cargo tonnage.
The accreditation marks a milestone in MCIA’s sustainability efforts as airports worldwide face growing pressure to reduce emissions while accommodating rising passenger and cargo demand.
Green commitment
"This ACA Level 2 validates that our team is making real, measurable progress in embedding sustainability into every aspect of our operations," Ricia Montejo, general manager of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corp. (ACAC), said in a statement.
"By balancing smart energy solutions with world-class service, we are ensuring that Cebu’s growth as a premier transfer hub remains environmentally responsible and aligned with global best practices."
Julius Neri Jr., general manager and CEO of Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority, described the achievement as a clear testament to what strong public-private synergy can deliver for a more sustainable infrastructure in the Philippines.
"MCIAA and ACAC remain united in introducing eco-friendly technologies, optimizing airfield efficiency, and building a greener gateway for future generations of travelers," he added.
How it was done
MCIA has reduced its carbon intensity through solar power, energy-efficiency measures, electric ground equipment and other initiatives.
After identifying its major sources of emissions, MCIA introduced several measures, including optimizing energy use through its building management system, tapping its 1.64-megawatt-peak rooftop solar facility, installing smart sensors and LED lights, improving the maintenance and monitoring of air-conditioning systems, and tracking the fuel efficiency of airport vehicles and equipment.
The airport’s sustainability efforts also extend beyond its buildings to aircraft ground operations.
In 2024, MCIA began using bridge-mounted equipment that provides parked aircraft with electricity and cabin cooling, reducing the need to burn jet fuel while on the ground.
Airlines operating at MCIA also began using fully electric ground support equipment in 2025 and implementing single-engine taxi-in procedures to reduce fuel consumption during ground operations.
Looking forward
Under its updated Carbon Management Plan, MCIA aims to reduce the intensity of its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by more than 90 percent by 2029 from baseline levels. The airport is targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. —Connie Fernandez-Brojan | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
