The air cargo industry has outlined its 30 key ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) priorities, according to the findings of the 2025 Insight Report, based on TIACA's (The International Air Cargo Association) fifth industry sustainability survey. These priorities highlight the areas where companies are actively focusing, whether by raising awareness or implementing measures to enhance their impact.
The findings were presented Wednesday morning during the TIACA Media Day, in which Aviacionline is participating.
Digitalization and Innovation Lead the Agenda
The report indicates that digitalization (99%) and innovation (98%) are the top areas of focus, followed by continuous operational improvement (97%), training and education (97%), and employee experience (96%). These results emphasize the industry's commitment to leveraging technology and workforce development to optimize operations and improve efficiency.
Commitment to Sustainability and Inclusion
On the environmental front, companies are prioritizing energy consumption reduction (95%), vehicle utilization optimization (93%), and the adoption of clean energy sources, including sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) (89%).
In the social sphere, diversity and inclusion (94%), support for local economies and job creation (94%), and collaboration with local communities (87%) stand out as key priorities.
Combating Illegal Trade and Reducing Waste
The report also highlights a strong focus on fighting illegal trade (92%), reducing single-use plastics and foam (91%), and improving perishable waste management (84%). Additionally, the industry is showing growing interest in promoting circular economy initiatives and recycling (84%) and combating wildlife trafficking and poaching (84%).
Carbon and Operational Efficiency
Other key focus areas include carbon offsetting (80%), carbon capture technologies (77%), and the implementation of lighter vehicles and auxiliary equipment (79%). The industry is also prioritizing optimized practices for live animal transportation (77%) and the adoption of more efficient refrigerants (74%).
Sustainability Remains a Key Concern for Employees and Customers
One significant finding is that sustainability is seen as a strategic priority, particularly from the perspective of employees and customers. 71% of companies identified these two groups as the main drivers of sustainability efforts. Meanwhile, business partners (66%), shareholders (57%), and local communities (54%) were also considered influential, though to a lesser extent.
The report also tracks the evolution of sustainability perception since 2021, revealing a steady increase in importance among employees, customers, and business partners, while interest from regulators and shareholders has grown at a slower pace.
Less Pressure on Companies, but Sustainability Remains on the Agenda
Despite the growing recognition of sustainability's importance, industry pressure on companies to implement sustainable measures has declined over the past year. 61% of companies reported feeling pressure to adopt sustainability initiatives, a six-percentage-point drop from the previous year (67%).
The level of pressure varies by company size:
- Large corporations report the highest pressure (71%).
- Medium-sized businesses feel a 60% pressure level.
- Small enterprises experience the least pressure (44%).
This suggests that larger companies face greater ESG expectations.
Regionally, pressure levels are fairly consistent, with:
- The Americas and Europe at 62%,
- Asia at 60%,
- Middle East and Africa at 61%.
Even with reduced pressure, sustainability remains a crucial topic for the air cargo industry, shaping its future strategies and operations.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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