Airport Carbon Accreditation Verification Programme

Airport Carbon Accreditation Verification Programme (ACA)

Empowering airports to lead in sustainability

Empowering airports to lead in sustainability

TÜV SÜD offers comprehensive verification services for the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) Programme, helping airports worldwide achieve recognised standards in carbon management and sustainability. As an independent verifier, we support airports through every stage of the ACA journey, from initial carbon footprint mapping to achieving net zero emissions. 

What is the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA)?    

Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) is the only global, airport-specific carbon management certification Programme. It encourages airports to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon emissions through a structured, multi-level approach. 

The 7 Levels of Airport Carbon Accreditation

 Level  Key Requirements
Level 1: Mapping Measure and report Scope 1 & 2 emissions to establish a carbon baseline.
Level 2: Reduction Demonstrate actual carbon reductions (e.g. through energy efficiency or renewable energy).
Level 3: Optimisation Address selected Scope 3 emissions by collaborating with airlines, tenants, and service providers.
Level 3+: Neutrality Offset all residual Scope 1 & 2 emissions using verified carbon credits.
Level 4: Transformation Align with Paris Agreement targets and implement deep operational emission reductions.
Level 4+: Transition Continue emissions reductions and offset remaining Scope 1 & 2 emissions with high-quality credits.
Level 5: Net Zero Reduce Scope 1 & 2 emissions by at least 90%, neutralise the rest with certified removals, address Scope 3, and commit to full value chain net zero by 2050 or earlier.

 

Our Verification Services

  • Carbon Footprint Verification: Scope 1 & 2 emissions, with scope 3 if applicable.
  • Carbon Management Plan Review: Assessment of reduction targets, initiatives, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Stakeholder Engagement Validation: Required for higher ACA levels (Level 3 and above) assessing the responsible parties, action plans to reduce emissions, partnership initiatives, and mechanisms to monitor progress.
  • Offsetting Verification: Ensuring credible offsetting of residual emissions for Levels 3+, 4+ and 5.
  • Independent Assurance: Third-party verification aligned with ISO 14064-3:2019 standard.

Why Choose TÜV SÜD for ACA verification? 

  • Expertise Across All ACA Levels: From Mapping to Net Zero (Level 1 to Level 5).
  • Global Experience: Our team has successfully verified airports across diverse regions and operational scales, demonstrating deep expertise in managing complex carbon management challenges and accreditation requirements.
  • Trusted Professionals: Led by seasoned experts.
  • Tailored Support: Customised guidance to meet your airport’s unique sustainability goals. 

Benefits of ACA Verification

  • Enhanced credibility and transparency
  • Compliance with international climate goals
  • Improved stakeholder confidence
  • Recognition as a sustainability leader in aviation

Get Started Today 

Contact our team to learn how TÜV SÜD can support your ACA accreditation journey.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Which ACA levels can TÜV SÜD India verify?

    TÜV SÜD India can verify all Airport Carbon Accreditation levels, from Level 1 (Mapping) through to Level 5 (Net Zero). The company provides expert independent verification at every stage of the ACA process, supporting airports in achieving progressive carbon management and compliance with global climate standards.

  • What does the verification process involve?

    The ACA verification process involves assessing an airport’s carbon footprint data (Scope 1, 2, and optionally Scope 3), reviewing carbon management plans and reduction initiatives, validating stakeholder engagement at higher levels, verifying carbon offsetting where required, and providing independent assurance in line with ISO 14064 standards.

  • Why should our airport pursue Airport Carbon Accreditation?
    The airport should pursue ACA accreditation to enhance credibility, transparency, and compliance with global climate targets. Accreditation demonstrates sustainability leadership, strengthens stakeholder trust, and positions the airport as a responsible contributor to aviation’s environmental commitments, giving it a competitive edge in a climate-conscious industry.
  • How long does the verification process take?
    Verification timelines vary depending on your airport’s size, ACA level pursued, and complexity of emissions data. TÜV SÜD provides support to streamline reviews and ensure timely completion, helping airports progress efficiently through accreditation stages. 
  • How is an airport’s carbon footprint calculated?
    An airport’s carbon footprint is calculated by measuring Scope 1 direct emissions, Scope 2 purchased energy emissions, and, where applicable, Scope 3 indirect emissions from airlines, tenants, and service providers. TÜV SÜD supports airports in accurately quantifying and reporting these emissions for ACA compliance and transparency. 
  • What support does TÜV SÜD India provide during the Airport Carbon Accreditation?
    TÜV SÜD India supports airports during ACA accreditation by verifying carbon footprints, reviewing management plans, validating stakeholder engagement, and verifying offsetting. This will help airports meet accreditation requirements and achieve long-term sustainability goals with independent assurance.
  • How often must an airport be reverified for Airport Carbon Accreditation?
    Annual verification is not mandatory as it depends on the ACA level. For Levels 1 and 2, renewal is required every second year, while for Level 3 and above, it is every third year.

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