Emirates is stepping up its game in the eco-friendly department. Just recently, Emirates snagged the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) Stage One and the IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade module certifications. This move isn’t just for show; it’s part of Emirates’ ongoing efforts to be a responsible player in the world of travel.
A Comprehensive Approach to Environmental Management
The IEnvA system is a top-notch environmental management setup. Emirates has jumped into Stage One, which covers everything from flight operations to corporate activities. But they didn’t stop there. They also added an illegal wildlife trade module to their environmental efforts. Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Emirates’ Divisional Senior VP, International Affairs, said, “We are proud to achieve the IEnvA Stage One certification. We are committed to robust environmental management systems and to driving real change both within our own operations and across the industry.”
Fighting the Good Fight Against Wildlife Trafficking
Emirates isn’t new to the battle against illegal wildlife trade. They’re a founding signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration and a member of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce. Ian Cruickshank, Transport Taskforce Manager, United for Wildlife, praised Emirates for their “strong leadership in combatting wildlife trafficking.”
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo side of the airline, has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal wildlife trade. They’ve even banned hunting trophies for the Big-4. This commitment isn’t limited to the cargo team; it extends to passenger services, including cabin crew and airport services.
Investing in a Greener Future
Earlier this year, Emirates pledged a whopping $200 million to projects aimed at reducing the impact of fossil fuels in commercial flights. Spread over three years, this is one of the largest single commitments by any airline to sustainability. Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Chief Economist and SVP Sustainability, said, “We congratulate Emirates on having achieved the IEnvA Stage 1 certification… We look forward to working together with Emirates to achieve our common goal of reducing environmental impacts.”
So, what’s the takeaway? Emirates is making serious strides in environmental responsibility, from getting certified in environmental management to fighting against illegal wildlife trade. They’re not just talking the talk; they’re walking the walk, and it’s all part of their bigger plan to make travel better for everyone—and for the planet.
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