Oranjestad, Aruba – The Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) proudly announced that Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA Airport) has been awarded the Green Globe Certification for the second consecutive year, a prestigious global benchmark for sustainability in travel and tourism. This recognition reinforces AAA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, both within the airport and across the wider community.
After making history in 2022 as the first airport in the world to earn Green Globe Certification, AUA Airport has once again met the stringent standards required for re-certification on October 2, 2023. The 2023 audit, led by an independent assurance auditor, assessed 56 sustainability criteria including environmental practices, cultural heritage preservation, socio-economic responsibility, and sustainable management.
AAA has continued to elevate its sustainability strategy, expanding its Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) reporting to include business-related travel, while enhancing data monitoring and updating its environmental management systems. Through its “Wings of Hope” program, the airport also supports a range of community-driven projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Birte Pelayo, CEO of Green Globe, praised Aruba Airport’s achievements, stating:
“As the only certified airport under the Green Globe sustainability program, Aruba Airport Authority N.V. is an international leader. From organizing the Global SDG Action Week to aiming for all ground equipment to operate on non-fossil fuel energy by 2030, AAA exemplifies commitment to real environmental and social progress.”
Christine Kaarsbaan-Leo, AAA’s Sustainability & Health Manager, emphasized the airport’s role in driving change:
“As an airport, we must lead by example. Our focus is on reducing our environmental footprint, improving operations, and fostering a culture of sustainability within our airport community and the island.”
Angeline Flemming, Director of Health, Safety, and Sustainability at AAA, added:
“This certification reflects the collective dedication of our team. We are constantly working to enhance our sustainability efforts and are proud to be recognized once again for these efforts.”
About AUA Airport
Queen Beatrix International Airport is one of the busiest in the Caribbean, serving over 2.5 million passengers annually (pre-COVID) with flights to 28 destinations and 25+ airlines. The majority of visitors are leisure travelers, primarily from the U.S. and Canada (75%), followed by Latin America (15%), Europe (6%), and the Dutch Antilles (4%).
AAA credits Aruba’s stable economy, political environment, welcoming culture, and safety for its tourism success. As the airport continues to expand and modernize, it remains committed to being a regional leader in sustainability and innovation.
Photo Credit: https://arubaonline.news/aruba-commitment-sustainability-aruba-airport-green-globe-certification/
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