Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Lead in Sustainability with IEnvA Certification

Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hactl become the first in Asia to achieve the IEnvA certification, reinforcing Hong Kong's commitment to environmental sustainability in air cargo operations.

In a landmark development for the aviation industry, Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) have both been awarded the prestigious International Air Transport Association Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification. This achievement marks them as the first cargo handling companies in Asia to receive this recognition, further cementing Hong Kong's status as a global leader in air cargo services.

The IEnvA program is a rigorous certification scheme devised by IATA to evaluate and improve the environmental and sustainability performance of aviation stakeholders, including airlines, airports, cargo handlers, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers. The program sets a high bar for participants, demanding adherence to internationally recognized standards and industry best practices aimed at reducing environmental footprints while maintaining operational excellence.

Mark Watts, Chief Operating Officer of Cathay Cargo Terminal, highlighted the significance of this milestone, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the IEnvA program and its alignment with the broader goals of sustainable airport operations at Hong Kong International Airport. "This certification underlines our commitment to environmental stewardship and our continuous efforts to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations," Watts stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Wilson Kwong, Chief Executive of Hactl, pointed out the rigorous efforts made by his company to embed sustainable practices in their day-to-day operations. "Achieving the IEnvA certification is a testament to our dedication to environmental responsibility. It not only sets a benchmark for the industry but also reinforces our leadership in advancing sustainable initiatives within the aviation sector," said Kwong.

Quintin Holder, IATA's Senior Manager for Sustainability Standards and Audits, elaborated on the role of the IEnvA program in marrying environmental objectives with operational efficiency. "Our aim is to enable organizations like Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hactl to pursue sustainability without compromising on their operational goals. The IEnvA program is designed to ensure that businesses can be both environmentally responsible and efficient, contributing to a sustainable future for aviation," Holder explained.

This dual certification of Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hactl under the IEnvA program not only showcases their commitment to minimizing environmental impacts but also serves as a call to action for other industry players to follow suit. As Hong Kong's air cargo terminals lead by example, the entire aviation sector is encouraged to elevate its sustainability practices, ensuring a greener future for global air transport.