Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) certified by global program to measure and reduce carbon emissions
Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) has achieved Level 1 of the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program. The level, called “Footprint measurement,” means the airport has measured its greenhouse gas emissions and identified where they come from within airport operations. This creates a baseline to track progress and support future reductions.
ACA is a global certification program for airports that helps them measure, manage, and reduce carbon emissions. Airports can move through several levels of accreditation, from measuring emissions to reaching carbon neutrality and net zero. More than 650 airports in 93 countries take part in the program at different levels.
“Measuring the airport’s carbon footprint is an important first step toward a more sustainable future for YKF,” said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo. “We’re proud of this progress and committed to supporting the aviation sector’s shift to lower-carbon emissions. YKF is focusing on reducing energy use and improving energy efficiency. This work will help protect the environment for future generations while keeping residents of Waterloo Region connected to the world.”
Participating in ACA helps ensure climate action and environmental stewardship remain part of YKF’s day-to-day decision-making, especially as the airport plans for future growth. Environmental initiatives are outlined in YKF’s Airport Growth Plan, which will be finalized later this year. Once approved by Regional Council, the document will guide how YKF will develop, operate, and invest in infrastructure over the long term, to safely meet Waterloo Region’s future needs.
“By joining Airport Carbon Accreditation, YKF is taking practical steps to reduce the environmental impacts of airport operations,” said Dr. Suzanne Kearns, Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA). “This work supports more sustainable airport operations while maintaining the social and economic benefits of air travel in our Region. WISA is proud to partner with YKF by bringing research and operational expertise together to support a more sustainable future.”
Airport staff are now working toward Level 2, which focuses on putting a carbon management plan in place and continuing to reduce the airport’s carbon footprint. To learn more, visit the Environment section of the airport website.
Flair Airlines, Sunwing, and WestJet offer non-stop flights from YKF. Air Canada Landline provides motorcoach service between YKF and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ). Through airline partner networks, travellers can connect to more than 140 destinations worldwide. YKF is proud to be one of only four airports in Canada certified Gold by the Rick Hansen Foundation for accessibility.