Emirates launches new environment programme

Dubai: On the eve of taking delivery of its first eco-efficient Airbus A380, Emirates on Thursday unveiled a series of initiatives to further improve the environmental performance of its operations worldwide.

The programme, branded Emvironment, includes the adoption of a new environmental policy for the Emirates Group, a global staff awareness campaign and internal goals to reduce energy consumption and waste, as well as increase recycling and training.

Emirates has also launched a new section on its website that features information on the group's management of environmental issues.

Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and CEO of Emirates Group, said: "Emirates is committed to acting responsibly and sustainably in the interests of our customers, our business, the environment and the 100-plus destinations we serve worldwide.

"Our environmental commitment began well before it was considered fashionable, when we sponsored the creation of the Dubai desert conservation reserve in 1997.

"Emirates is investing billions of dollars in new aircraft that demonstrate our environmental leadership through the most fuel- and emission-efficient fleet possible. Our A380s are the world's most eco-efficient commercial aircraft.

"Emvironment's aim is to make our organisation as sustainable as possible and we intend to keep our stakeholders regularly informed on progress and future initiatives."

Emvironment will focus on reducing already low levels of per passenger fuel-burn and emissions and driving eco-efficiency throughout the organisation by recycling and reusing resources.