Sustainability as a core value for Aeropuertos Argentina 2000

Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 is working on a detailed and integrated programme to continue developing sustainability across all airports it operates. CREDIT: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000

At Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, we work daily to facilitate connections between people, goods, and cultures, with the goal of contributing to a better world.

To achieve this, we have established a strategy supported by five core values that guide our actions:

• Exceeding customer expectations.
• Cultivating a culture of agility, innovation, and inclusion.
• Operating with efficiency and safety.
• Managing our environmental impact responsibly.
• Creating a positive impact in the communities where we operate.

These core values provide a framework for our initiatives and serve as a clear guideline for all employees.

In the following sections, we will dive into the main sustainability initiatives implemented at Ezeiza International Airport. As Argentina’s largest international airport, Ezeiza recently inaugurated a new departures terminal with the aim of becoming a leader and reference point in the aviation industry.

Key sustainability projects, programmes, and initiatives that drive our strategy include: 

Decarbonisation

We focus on energy efficiency and transforming our energy supply matrix to continuously reduce our carbon footprint. Initiatives in this area include implementing an energy efficiency programme encompassing LED illumination, sensor technology, a Building Management System (BMS), electric vehicles, and signing a Power Procurement Agreement (PPA) to source 90% of Ezeiza’s energy from renewable sources provided by Genneia, a major renewable generator in Argentina. This plan has allowed us to reduce emissions from 21,843 tCO2e in 2019 to an expected 5,000 tCO2e in 2023, with a clear pathway for further reduction in the coming years.

CREDIT: Aeropuertos Argentina 2000

Waste reduction and recycling

Given the expected passenger volume of nearly 12 million for this year, seven VIP lounges, 20 retail shops and 33 restaurants, waste management and coordination present a significant challenge.

Since 2022, we have initiated a programme to reduce, separate, and recycle waste throughout the airport. This programme involves extensive co-ordination with all airport stakeholders, including the installation of specialised waste bins, reengineering waste management processes, and comprehensive communication efforts. As of early 2023, we have achieved a 20% recycling rate for the waste generated by the entire airport.

Unplastifying our airports

In collaboration with Unplastify, a consulting company dedicated to minimising the use of disposable plastic, we have launched a long‑term programme involving airport stakeholders, particularly those in the food and beverage sector, to reduce disposable plastic usage. This initiative includes installing water refill stations throughout the airport, eliminating plastic bottles in vending machines, substituting plastic cutlery with bamboo alternatives in restaurants, and other relevant measures.

Accessibility

Ensuring inclusive travel experiences is a priority for us, as we believe our airports are the starting and ending points of every journey. To address the diverse needs of passengers, including those with disabilities or limited mobility, we have implemented an accessibility programme that includes the following components:

• Ensuring accessible infrastructure and facilities, such as accessible parking, drop-off areas, wheelchair accessibility (ramps, elevators, and escalators), clear signage, and easily navigable pathways.
• Establishing an accessibility support centre in the departures terminal, equipped with clear signage, braille and large-print options, and visual and auditory announcements.
• Providing comprehensive training for airport staff, including security personnel, customer service representatives, and airline staff, on disability identifications and assisting passengers with disabilities.
• Developing specific protocols for passengers on the autistic spectrum, deaf individuals (in collaboration with the SEA Foundation), and those with Down syndrome (in collaboration with the Asdra Foundation).

Sustainable tourism programme

Recognising the significant potential of tourism in Argentina, we have partnered with the Catholic University of Salta (UCASAL) to promote sustainability in the tourism sector.

Through a free training programme, we aim to equip participants in the tourism industry with knowledge and understanding of sustainability concepts. This virtual programme, developed in collaboration with the Master in Sustainable Tourism Management team from UCASAL, covers key aspects of sustainability and tourism.

Community engagement

Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 is deeply committed to the communities where we operate, and so we understand the positive impact our business activities can have on the economy and society, both directly and indirectly. In the case of Ezeiza, we have achieved several significant milestones, such as employing over 2,500 individuals during the construction of the new terminal and creating more than 500 new jobs in the region for various services, including food and beverage, security, cleaning, and retail. Additionally, we actively support the Ezeiza Dr. Alberto Antranik Eurnekian Hospital, which plays a vital role in providing medical services to the region. Moreover, we collaborate with local schools and universities to develop and support students through dedicated programmes.

All these efforts are aimed at reducing our environmental impact and creating a positive influence in the communities where we operate, aligning with our core values. By doing so, we strive to enhance the sustainability of our business.