ACI World launches Sustainability Expansion Plan in Montréal

During the launch of Sustainability Expansion Plan. CREDIT: ACI WORLD

Airports Council International (ACI) World launches the Sustainability Expansion Plan in the city of Montréal. The plan is funded by Montréal International with the support of the Government of Canada, the Government of Québec, and the City of Montréal. The plan foresees the continued investment in Montréal – considered the World Capital of Civil Aviation – and in the sustainability of airports as essential enablers of economic growth and prosperity.

The launch was celebrated with government officials and top aviation and investment representatives at the ACI World Cocktail Reception on 04 May 2023, at the iconic Place Ville Marie, in Montréal, Canada.

The Sustainability Expansion Plan strengthens ACI World’s sustainability initiatives that support its global airport membership in all disciplines of airport management and that align with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The plan also contributes to ACI World and its member airports’ commitment to reaching the aviation industry’s goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, supporting the sustainable growth of the sector and generating social and economic benefits for the communities it serves.

Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec said: “The Government of Canada has made concrete commitments to strengthen our ongoing fight against climate change and play an active role in the transition to the economy of the future. The support granted to Airports Council International (ACI) World, to develop the Sustainability Expansion Plan, clearly illustrates this. Thanks to our non-repayable contribution of $283,334, provided through our collaboration with Montréal International, the organisation will play a key role in promoting sustainable practices within the global aviation industry. This project will also enable the metropolis to continue to shine on the international stage.”

Martine Biron, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women said: “The Ministère des Relations internationales et de la Francophonie du Québec is proud to contribute to the Sustainable Development Programme implemented by Airports Council International (ACI) World, as it reflects Québec’s environmental and sustainable development values and objectives. This expansion shows how international organisations operating in Québec can help develop and promote Montréal as the civil aviation capital of the world. I would like to applaud ACI’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals that will contribute to the future of civil aviation.”

Valérie Plante, Mayor of the City of Montréal said: “ACI World’s Sustainability Expansion Plan is an important step in making airport operations greener. As the civil aviation capital of the world, Montréal is proud to see ACI further support the green transition. Aviation is a major contributor to global economic prosperity. Hence, its role in the development of a sustainable energy transition that also promotes the overall health of our ecosystem has never been more as important.”

Luis Felipe de Oliveira, Director General of ACI World said: “The Sustainability Expansion Plan builds on a long-standing cooperation with Montréal International and its partners, the Government of Canada, the Government of Québec and the City of Montréal. The plan represents an important milestone in the strengthening of ACI World’s sustainability initiatives that support our global airport members. Despite the difficulties faced by the sector in the last few years, the expansion plan ensures our long-term commitment with Montréal and its position as the World Capital of Civil Aviation, providing employment and relevance to the whole aviation ecosystem.

“On behalf of ACI World, I thank Montréal International, its financial partners, and CEO Stéphane Paquet and his team who have been pivotal in this project. Together, through the investment in airports’ sustainability, we are accomplishing great things for the social and economic well-being of millions of people worldwide.”

Stéphane Paquet, President and CEO of Montréal International said: “Since the 1940s, Montréal has been recognised worldwide as a hub for civil aviation. The city’s fame in this sector is due in large part to international organisations such as ACI World that develop cutting-edge programmes like the Sustainability Expansion Plan launched today. We ought to be proud and grateful for such initiatives that help build a green and inclusive economy and demonstrate Montréal’s international organisations’ leadership in decarbonising our planet.”