Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) verification services – Levels 1 to 3+
Enabling decarbonization in aviation through verified climate action
The aviation industry is undergoing a decisive transformation in response to the global climate agenda. Airports, as pivotal nodes in this ecosystem, are under increasing pressure to demonstrate measurable progress in carbon management. The Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program, developed by Airports Council International (ACI), serves as the leading global framework for independently assessing and recognizing airport efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program stands out as a globally esteemed certification initiative, dedicated to aiding airports in their efforts to manage and diminish carbon emissions. Uniquely, it is the sole program with institutional endorsement that independently evaluates airports' carbon management practices.
As an internationally accredited verification and assurance body, DNV is proud to support airports in achieving ACA certification across Levels 1 (Mapping), 2 (Reduction), 3 (Optimization), and 3+ (Neutrality).
Our role as an ACA-approved verifier
DNV is recognized by ACI as an ACA-approved independent third-party verifier, qualified to assess and verify carbon footprint data and emission reduction performance in full alignment with the ACA requirements and ISO 14064-3:2019 standards. Our verifiers possess certified expertise in ACA GHG accounting, airport operations, and sustainability frameworks, ensuring that every verification meets the highest standards of quality, impartiality, and rigour.
Our team includes experienced sustainability auditors and environmental engineers who undergo continuous professional development and are well-versed with the operational, regulatory, and carbon management intricacies of international and regional airports alike.
Our ACA verification services
1. Verification across ACA levels
- Level 1 (Mapping): Independent verification of scope 1 and scope 2 GHG emissions inventory, including boundary setting and emission factor application.
- Level 2 (Reduction): Assessment of reduction targets, strategies implemented, and evidence of carbon performance improvement.
- Level 3 (Optimization): Review of engagement with third parties (e.g., airlines, ground handlers) in emission reduction initiatives and data integration.
- Level 3+ (Neutrality): Verification of carbon offsetting practices and assurance that residual emissions are effectively compensated.
2. Comprehensive verification package
- Verification of GHG inventory, emissions boundaries, and methodologies
- Evaluation of data controls, calculation tools, and evidence chain
- Review of emission reduction initiatives and outcomes
- Assessment of stakeholder engagement in collaborative carbon management (Level 3+)
- Final verification statement compliant with ACA submission requirements
Our services not only help airports comply with ACA but also support broader ESG reporting, aligning with frameworks such as ICMA Bond Principles, LMA/LSTA Loan Principles, GRI, TCFD, CDP, and ICAO's CORSIA.
How DNV supports your decarbonization journey
With over 150 years of experience in assurance and risk management, DNV combines deep technical expertise with a commitment to sustainability. Our global presence and sector-specific knowledge enable us to provide tailored assurance services that meet your unique needs.
Through our ACA verification services, we empower airports to communicate climate progress credibly, engage stakeholders effectively, and contribute meaningfully to the aviation industry’s net zero future.
Get in touch with DNV’s expert in India to understand how we can help you with your decarbonization journey.
