Verification for Airport Carbon Accreditation
To participate in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme, airports must demonstrate that their reported emissions data provide a fair and accurate representation of their activities and carbon footprint. Therefore, this data must be independently verified by a recognised third party.
Normec Verifavia provides verification services for airports participating in the ACA programme. As a leading verification body for carbon emissions in the aviation sector, Normec Verifavia has already audited more than 150 airports worldwide across various ACA levels.
With our verification services, you can be confident that your emissions data meet ACA programme requirements and that your reporting is transparent and reliable.
Our Approach
Our verification approach combines in-depth knowledge of aviation emissions with a structured audit process.
During the verification, we assess, among other things:
- The calculation of the airport’s carbon footprint
- The methodologies used and emissions data
- Emission reductions and progress towards targets
- Documentation and internal processes for emissions management
- Compliance with ACA requirements
Through this independent verification, airports gain insight into their emissions data and can further strengthen their climate strategy.
The Airport Carbon Accreditation programme consists of seven levels. Each level focuses on further improving emissions management and stakeholder collaboration.
The Seven Levels of Airport Carbon Accreditation
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1.
Level 1 – Measuring the CO₂ Footprint
Measuring and reporting the airport’s carbon footprint.
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2.
Level 2 – Carbon Management
Active emissions management with the goal of reducing the CO₂ footprint.
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3.
Level 3 – Stakeholder Engagement
Collaboration with airport partners to reduce emissions.
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4.
Stage 3+ – Achievement of Carbon Neutrality
Offsetting direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2) to achieve CO₂ neutrality.
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5.
Level 4 – Transformation of operations
Structural changes in airport operations and collaboration with partners to achieve absolute emissions reductions.
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6.
Level 4+
Offsetting remaining emissions over which the airport has control with reliable carbon offsets.
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7.
Level 5
Airports must demonstrate that they have achieved Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions through at least 90% absolute CO₂ reduction and neutralising remaining emissions via recognised carbon removal solutions.
Normec Verifavia Expertise
Normec Verifavia has extensive experience in emissions verification within the aviation sector.
International experience
We have audited more than 150 airports worldwide within the ACA programme.
Specialist knowledge of aviation emissions
Our experts have extensive knowledge of emissions calculations and climate reporting for airports.
Independent and reliable verification
We provide an objective assessment of emissions data and reports.
Efficient and structured audits
Our approach ensures a fast and thorough verification process.
Our verification services offer several benefits for airports:
- Demonstrate that your emissions reporting is reliable and transparent
- Comply with the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme requirements
- Increase trust among stakeholders, partners, and regulators
- Gain insight into opportunities to further reduce emissions
- Strengthen the airport’s sustainability reputation
Verification Schedule within the ACA Programme
Airports must submit a verified GHG inventory upon initial application and at defined intervals depending on their certification level. For Levels 1–3/3+, verification is required at entry and every two years thereafter. For Levels 4 and 4+, verification follows a three-year cycle, while Level 5 requires annual verification, including interim years.
Verification is also required whenever an airport upgrades to a higher level. From Level 2 onwards, airports must demonstrate emission reductions in Scope 1 and Scope 2, including compliance with targets and performance against a three-year rolling average.
Procedure
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1.
Introduction
You will receive an audit preparation letter explaining the verification process, required documentation, and a preliminary schedule.
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2.
Data Collection
During a site visit (on-site or remote), our auditors discuss the submitted data and processes with the airport operator.
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3.
Evaluation and Review
Our experts analyze the emissions data and documentation. Additional information may be requested as part of this process.
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4.
Completion
Once the process is complete, you will receive a verification statement, and the full application can be submitted to the ACA administrator.
Curious to know how we can help you with ACA?
Frequently Asked Questions
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Airport Carbon Accreditation is a global program that helps airports measure, manage and reduce their carbon footprint.
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Verification ensures that reported emissions data is reliable and meets ACA program requirements.
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In most cases, airports must submit a verified carbon footprint every two years. For some levels, a three-year cycle applies.
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During verification, auditors review emissions data, calculations, methodologies, and emission reductions.
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Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from activities under the airport’s control.
Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from purchased energy.
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Yes, depending on the circumstances, verification can be performed remotely.
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The duration depends on the size of the airport and the complexity of the emissions data. After an initial review, a schedule can be established.
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Airport Carbon Accreditation encourages airports to implement best practices in carbon management and actively reduce emissions. Participation allows airports to gain recognition for their efforts, improve operational efficiency, and share knowledge within the sector. It also increases the visibility, credibility and transparency of sustainability performance.
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All data provided to Normec Verifavia for verification remain confidential.
After verification and submission via ACA Online, the ACA administrator may use aggregated data for annual public reporting. However, this data is always aggregated so that it cannot be traced back to individual airports.
In some cases, the programme advisory board may request specific data on a confidential basis to assess the reliability of the programme. The airport concerned will always be informed. For publications on best practices or case studies, prior permission will always be requested from the airport.
The programme promotes transparency in carbon management and emission reduction claims. Therefore, at all levels of the programme public reporting is required. The airport shall publish the following information on the airport’s website or via public documents: Signed Policy Commitment.
GHG Inventory: Total Scope 1 and 2 emissions (Levels 1–5), plus select Scope 3 emissions (Level 3 & 3+), or total Scope 3 emissions (Levels 4, 4+ & 5).
Emission Reduction Target and Base Year (Levels 2–5). ▪
Proof of Purchase of Carbon Credits to Offset Residual Emissions (Level 3+, 4+, 5) including the certificate(s)11 and web link.
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Once the application is verified and submitted through ACA Online, the ACA program review process normally takes 15 calendar days (excluding holidays).
This applies when the application fully meets program requirements. If additional information or clarification is needed, the review process may take longer.
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Yes, depending on the circumstances, verification can be performed fully or partially remotely.