dnata, one of the world’s leading air and travel services providers, has become the first ground handling operator in Europe to receive the environmental management certification from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
This recognition highlights the company’s dedication to implementing robust sustainability initiatives.
The IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification program developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders, such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, carriers, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.
IATA’s comprehensive evaluation rigorously assessed dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director of dnata Netherlands, stated: “We are proud to be the first ground handling operator to achieve the prestigious IEnvA certification in Europe. This accomplishment reflects our team’s dedication to environmental efficiency and our consistent efforts to contribute to dnata’s global decarbonization process. We will continue investing in infrastructure, equipment, and process improvement to further reduce our environmental footprint.”
Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Europe, stated: “We congratulate dnata Netherlands on becoming the first ground and cargo handling operator in Europe to achieve full IEnvA registration. This significant milestone demonstrates dnata Schiphol’s commitment to sustainable aviation and environmental excellence. By adhering to global environmental standards and best practices, dnata Schiphol is setting a strong example for the industry. We look forward to working together to continue driving sustainable aviation practices.”
Ongoing investments
In recent years, dnata Netherlands has made significant investments in electrifying its ground support equipment fleet to reduce emissions. Currently, more than 70% of its ground support equipment is powered by electricity or solar energy, with the remainder running on 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO100) biofuel.
dnata’s new facility, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, has also been designed with a strong focus on sustainability. The facility, set to open in 2025, will be equipped with solar panels, charging stations for electric vehicles, and air-source heat pumps. The cargo center will be BREEAM-certified (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).
Significant improvement in environmental performance
Globally, dnata recently reported significant improvements in key environmental performance metrics for the 2023-24 fiscal year. As a result of its consistent focus and initiatives, the company reduced the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22%, and 26% in its airport, travel, and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an accredited, independent environmental verification and auditing body.
In addition to the Netherlands, dnata also obtained IEnvA certification for its diverse business portfolio in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
