Indira Gandhi International Airport’s operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has reduced its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 97% between FY2020 and FY2025. This achievement, which represents a significant step in airport decarbonisation, is directly related to DIAL’s full switch to renewable energy.

A 7.84 MW on-site solar photovoltaic facility and long-term off-site hydropower procurement have provided DIAL with all of its net electricity needs since FY2022. By offsetting any remaining emissions through confirmed carbon removals, this shift allowed DIAL to reach net-zero status for Scope 1 and 2 emissions considerably ahead of its 2030 target. Due to its accomplishments, DIAL is now regarded as a leader among Indian airport operators, and as a result, ICRA ESG gave it an ESG Combined Rating of 77, or “Strong,” and an environmental score of 83, or “Exceptional.”

An Integrated Building Management System that allows for real-time monitoring and optimisation of HVAC, lighting, and electromechanical systems, as well as an energy management system certified by ISO 50001:2018, support the airport’s transition to renewable energy. Even though overall energy consumption increased as a result of increased passenger foot traffic and capacity development, DIAL carried out a number of energy-saving initiatives between FY2021 and FY2024 that collectively produced savings of 4.67 million kWh. ICRA ESG emphasises that DIAL’s decarbonisation profile and its leadership position among major infrastructure assets are largely dependent on this mix of efficiency and green power.

Beyond energy and emissions, DIAL’s clean operations initiatives, including the deployment of taxibots, the construction of the Eastern Cross Taxiway, and the gradual transition to electric vehicles, have contributed to a 38% reduction in air emission intensity between FY2023 and FY2025. Given the nature of airport operations, ICRA ESG points out that Scope 3 emissions are still a high-impact sector. However, DIAL has been measuring and reporting them since FY2016 and has set a long-term goal of net-zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050. According to the agency, DIAL’s capacity to maintain its net-zero Scope 1 and 2 status while expanding further, as well as increased value chain involvement and climate risk integration, will be crucial indicators as the business moves forward with its decarbonisation process.

A closed-loop water and waste management system complements the airport’s net-zero journey. By running a system with 100% wastewater recycling, a decreasing water consumption profile, and lately achieving water-positive status, DIAL has shown its performance in these areas. Less than 1% of its garbage is dumped in landfills, and its waste recovery rate is 98%. Additionally, the terminals have been certified as Net Zero Waste to Landfill Platinum by the Indian Green Building Council.

DIAL’s social efforts received a score of 78, which is considered “Strong.” The airport has established inclusive infrastructure for those with limited mobility and pregnant moms, has a strong record of staff safety, and provides extensive welfare and educational initiatives. Although voluntary, its CSR expenditures fund initiatives in women’s empowerment, healthcare, education, and skill development that impact more than 100,000 people in six areas close to the airport.

DIAL has strong governance procedures, including frequent reporting to stakeholders and board-level ESG review. The company’s disclosures are in line with global frameworks like the ICAO environmental objectives, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). DIAL’s methodical approach to sustainability was emphasised by ICRA ESG, which also noted the company’s compliance with international standards, third-party assurance, and continuous efforts to improve value chain sustainability. While there are still chances for improvement in areas like gender diversity, climate risk integration, and supplier ESG monitoring, DIAL’s ESG journey continues to set the standard for the Indian aviation industry.