TIACA releases the industry’s first Air Cargo Sustainability Roadmap

As part of its sustainability agenda, The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has published the industry’s first Air Cargo Sustainability roadmap. This comprehensive publication is designed to support the air cargo industry through what will be quite a period of transformation. Released to coincide with COP26 discussions, the roadmap illustrates the role air cargo stakeholders are playing today and will continue to play going forward with even more vigorous commitment.

The roadmap examines the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and maps how air cargo contributes to their attainment. The value of air cargo is proudly showcased, and indications of where we need to go from here are also covered.  

It provides practical guidance in the form of 30 actionable priorities addressing eight key areas:

1. Decarbonisation
2. Elimination of waste
3. Protecting biodiversity
4. Supporting local economies and communities
5. Improving lives and well-being
6. Improving efficiencies and profitability 
7. Attracting, retaining, and developing employees
8. Building and nurturing partnerships.

Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General said: “As we look ahead to the post-COVID-19 world, we fully expect the topic of Sustainability to be a significant driver of future industry success. We anticipate it will become our license to operate with industry customers and business partners demanding excellence in all aspects of sustainable performance; therefore the time to act is now.”

Consistent with TIACAs three P’s approach to sustainability, focusing on People, Planet, and Prosperity, the roadmap also details the role the Association will play to support the industry in the drive for sustainable transformation; namely supporting in four key areas:

1. Advocating for supportive industry regulations and recognition from governments of the vital role air cargo plays to support the global society and the global economy
2. Supporting Members as they progress with their sustainability transformation journey
3. Recognising and highlighting inspirational excellence and showcasing members success  
4. Providing a platform where industry can celebrate achievements and create a diverse and inclusive workforce with enhanced opportunities for all.

“I am proud of this latest deliverable in the TIACA Sustainability portfolio, which also comprises annual surveys, industry report card, an awards programme, training, and people development initiatives, with even more things in the pipeline. The Board sees this as a critical priority, and we are pleased to support our Members and the wider air cargo community with tools and materials,” added Steven Polmans, Chair of TIACA.