Bahrain International Airport celebrates Earth Hour and shows green credentials

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) showed its commitment to environmental sustainability yesterday as it celebrated this year’s Earth Hour by dimming or switching off all non-essential lights across the gateway.

Earth Hour is an annual worldwide movement organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), said: “BAC is proud to support this global initiative and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment.

“We are also keen to play a role in the government’s strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2060, which will help to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Kingdom.

“In line with this commitment, we have made significant improvements through the Airport Modernization Program that minimise the airport’s environmental impact.”

He added: “Bahrain International Airport is Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certificated and employs sustainability strategies that reduce energy and water use, improve waste management, and enhance indoor air quality.

“Cooling systems are the main drivers of electricity consumption in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which is why the airport uses an energy recovery system that saves approximately 23%.

“The airport’s advanced Building Management System also controls fluctuating demands like heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and artificial lighting, resulting in further energy savings.”

He noted that BAC continues to implement strategic projects aimed at conserving energy and protecting the environment.

An Environment Committee, for example, comprised of key airport stakeholders was established to reduce energy and carbon emissions and an Energy and Water Committee was recently formed to help further improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.