Charlottetown Airport (YYG) plays a unique and pivotal role in connecting people and driving economic growth in Prince Edward Island. As an airport operator, they aim to provide a convenient, modern, and sustainable transportation hub. Their dedication lies in conforming to worldwide efforts, like those established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International (ACI), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), to achieve zero emissions by 2050.
YYG partnered with us at Synergy Enterprises to develop a comprehensive sustainability plan aligning with global standards and local aspirations. We aimed to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into YYG's strategic and governance planning.
The Process
We identified critical environmental priorities through collaboration and outlined strategies to achieve their sustainability goals.
Here is what that looked like:
Developing the outline & structure of the Sustainability Plan in alignment with the ESG framework.
Facilitating a target-setting workshop with the YYG management team to identify goals and targets the airport can strive towards within each ESG area.
Developing content for the plan, including interim and long-term goals and fundamental strategies to achieve those goals.
Achievement
YYG has made significant strides in its sustainability journey thanks to our joint efforts. Recently, YYG released its five-year sustainability plan, which you can read here. This plan is designed to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices at Prince Edward Island's main airport, which served 400,000 passengers in 2023.
The plan also outlines goals for diversity and inclusion, creating better community relations, and risk and crisis management. YYG's commitment to sustainability sets a benchmark in the aviation industry, demonstrating how strategic planning and proactive measures can lead to tangible environmental benefits without compromising operational excellence.
“I am excited to introduce our Sustainability Plan, which outlines our commitment to sustainable airport operations. YYG is more than just a transportation hub; it is a cornerstone of our community and provincial and regional development. Our Sustainability Plan highlights our commitment to promoting economic growth, social equity, and environmental stewardship in Prince Edward Island. We are dedicated to collaborating with local businesses, supporting job creation, and fostering a culture of sustainability throughout our organization.” Doug Newson CEO of YYG
Looking Ahead
As Charlottetown Airport embarks on this ambitious journey toward sustainability, it serves as a beacon for other airports and businesses in Prince Edward Island and beyond. The collaborative efforts between YYG and Synergy Enterprises exemplify how dedicated partnerships can drive meaningful change, setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the aviation industry.
In the coming years, YYG aims to continually assess and enhance its sustainability practices, striving to meet and exceed the targets outlined in its comprehensive plan. By fostering innovation, engaging stakeholders, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to ESG principles, YYG is well on its way to becoming a leader in sustainable airport operations.
Explore how Synergy Enterprises can support your sustainability goals. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can partner with you on your journey toward decarbonization.