Wellington Airport scores highly in global sustainability assessment

Wellington Airport has scored 98 out of 100 in an independent global sustainability assessment, the highest-equal score ever achieved by the airport.

The assessment was carried out by GRESB who rate the performance and management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts of companies worldwide each year.

Wellington Airport’s score is an increase of four points from 2024 and ranked eleventh out of 23 participating airports across the world.

The new score is a highlight of the airport’s annual Kaitiakitanga report released today, highlighting efforts to support the environment, people and communities.

Some of the featured highlights of the last year include:

• Direct emissions have reduced 38% since FY17, or 68% when including certified renewable energy
• Achieved Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 4+
• First-ever Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) shipment received
• Record level of staff engagement 
• Sponsorship of Wellington major events and causes
• The Wellington Airport Urban Garden is thriving, producing compost and food donations for local community centres.

Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke says:

“This kind of independent assessment is very important to ensure we’re on the right track.

“In recent years we’ve managed to reduce our direct environmental footprint while at the same time handling more passengers and preparing for future growth. All of these are important achievements and our sustainability efforts are gathering pace every year.”