NEW DELHI (India CSR): Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the operator of Indira Gandhi International Airport, has achieved a 97% reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from FY2020 to FY2025. This accomplishment is a direct result of DIAL’s complete transition to renewable energy, marking a milestone in airport decarbonization.
Since FY2022, 100% of DIAL’s net electricity consumption has been sourced from a 7.84 MW on-site solar photovoltaic plant and long-term off-site hydropower procurement. This transition enabled DIAL to achieve net-zero status for Scope 1 and 2 emissions well ahead of its 2030 target, offsetting any residual emissions through verified carbon removals. These achievements position DIAL as a leader among Indian airport operators and led ICRA ESG to assign DIAL an ESG Combined Rating of 77, which is “Strong,” with an environmental score of 83, which is “Exceptional.”
The airport’s renewable energy transition is backed by an ISO 50001:2018-certified energy management system and an Integrated Building Management System that enables real-time monitoring and optimization of HVAC, lighting and electromechanical systems. Between FY2021 and FY2024, DIAL implemented multiple energy-saving projects that together delivered savings of 4.67 million kWh, even as overall energy consumption rose due to higher passenger footfalls and capacity expansion. ICRA ESG highlights this combination of green power and efficiency as central to DIAL’s decarbonization profile and its leadership position among large infrastructure assets.
Beyond energy and emissions, DIAL’s efforts on clean operations have helped reduce air emission intensity by 38% between FY2023 and FY2025 through measures such as deploying taxibots, developing the Eastern Cross Taxiway and gradually shifting to electric vehicles. ICRA ESG notes that while Scope 3 emissions remain a high-impact area given the nature of airport operations, DIAL has been measuring and reporting these since FY2016 and has articulated a long-term target of net-zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050. The agency adds that DIAL’s ability to sustain its net-zero Scope 1 and 2 status amid ongoing expansion, alongside deeper value chain engagement and climate risk integration, will be critical watchpoints as the company advances its decarbonisation journey.
The airport’s net-zero journey is complemented by a closed-loop water and waste management system. DIAL has demonstrated performance in these areas, operating a system with 100% wastewater recycling, a declining water consumption profile, and recently achieved water-positive status. Its waste recovery rate stands at 98%, with less than 1% sent to landfill. The terminals have also received the Indian Green Building Council’s Net Zero Waste to Landfill Platinum certification.
DIAL’s social initiatives have a “Strong” score of 78. The airport maintains a sound employee safety record, offers comprehensive welfare and learning programs, and has implemented inclusive infrastructure for people with reduced mobility and expectant mothers. Its CSR spending, while voluntary, supports programs in education, healthcare, skill development, and women’s empowerment, benefiting over 100,000 individuals across six communities near the airport.
Governance practices at DIAL are robust, with ESG oversight embedded at the board level and regular reporting to stakeholders. The company’s disclosures are aligned with international frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), and ICAO environmental objectives. ICRA ESG highlighted DIAL’s structured approach to sustainability, noting its alignment with global standards, third-party assurance, and ongoing efforts to strengthen value chain sustainability. While areas like supplier ESG monitoring, climate risk integration, and gender diversity offer further growth opportunities, DIAL’s ESG journey continues to set a benchmark for the aviation sector in India.
(India CSR)
