New Delhi, July 18, 2025: In a landmark achievement for India’s aviation sector, Delhi Airport, operated and managed by GMR Aero-led consortium Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has been awarded the prestigious IGBC Net Zero Waste to Landfill Platinum certification for its Terminals 1, 2, and 3 – making it the first and only airport in India to receive this recognition for the Operations Phase.
Conferred by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), this certification is a testament to Delhi Airport’s leadership in sustainable waste management and reflects its deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence.
This milestone underscores DIAL’s robust Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) strategy, specifically strengthening the ‘Environmental’ pillar by ensuring ~95% of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), which includes food and recyclables, is diverted from landfill dumping through comprehensive efforts in reduction, source segregation, recycling, and in-house composting.
Speaking about the unique achievement, CEO-DIAL, Mr. Videh Kumar Jaipuriar said, “Delhi Airport embeds ESG principles holistically across its operations-from green energy and emission reduction to inclusive community development. This recognition is not just a certification—it is validation of DIAL’s unwavering commitment to building a future-ready, climate-resilient airport ecosystem. We are proud to set the benchmark for Indian aviation in responsible waste management and environmental governance. Our adaptability and proactive approach ensure that we remain at the forefront of responsible and sustainable aviation.”
Delhi Airport’s waste management infrastructure includes two-bin and four-bin segregation systems, Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), Organic Waste Composters, and real-time waste tracking mechanisms, which collectively enable maximum resource recovery and minimal dependence on landfills.
DIAL’s sustainability initiatives have set industry benchmarks. Additionally, the Eastern Cross Taxiway, bridge-mounted equipment, use of green vehicles & green energy, and taxibots have contributed significantly to DIAL’s ACI Level 5 Net Zero Carbon goal, placing it among the most climate-forward airports globally.
The certification enhances Delhi Airport’s ESG credentials, improves investor confidence, and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, while also reinforcing compliance with evolving environmental regulations.
Beyond this latest accolade, Delhi Airport continues to lead in sustainable airport operations:
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It is the world’s largest airport accredited with ACI Level 5 Net Zero Carbon status.
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Certified Green Terminal Buildings on USGBC LEED & IGBC Standards with the highest Platinum levels
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100% of wastewater is treated and reused on-site.
This pioneering recognition by IGBC is expected to inspire other Indian airports to adopt circular economy principles and take decisive action toward achieving net-zero waste operations. (ENDS)
About GMR Airports Limited (Formerly GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited)
GMR Airports Limited (GAL) is a leading global airport platform company with over two decades of experience in designing, constructing, and operating world-class sustainable airports. Under the brand name “GMR AERO”, it offers pioneering aviation solutions in retail, aero services, and real estate. Groupe ADP joined the journey in 2020 as a strategic partner and is now a co-promoter in GAL.
As a platform business, GAL also provides a range of aero services including Duty Free, Retail, F&B, Cargo, Car Parking, O&M, and PMC services. Through its innovative Aerotropolis concept, it develops cutting-edge airport cities giving shape to best-in-class real estate developments in South Asia. GAL operates India's largest third-party Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility through its subsidiary, GMR Air Cargo and Aerospace Engineering Limited ensuring operational excellence across the Asia Pacific region.
GMR Innovex, a GMR Group entity, is developing and introducing a range of digital solutions to enhance the passenger journey and airport experience. Through GMR Aero Academy and GMR School of Aviation, the company is creating the talent pool necessary to drive the growth of the aviation sector in India (the third largest in the world).
As the largest private airport operator in Asia and the second-largest globally, GAL served over 120 million passengers in FY25 with a steadfast commitment to excellence in airport management as reflected in its consistent rankings for services by ACI and Skytrax. With a robust presence in India and Southeast Asia, the company operates key gateways such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, and Medan airports, while extending its technical services to Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Philippines. GAL is also developing transformative projects like the greenfield airports in Bhogapuram (Visakhapatnam), India, and Crete, Greece.
GMR Group, the promoter of GAL has a significant presence in Energy, Transportation, Urban Infrastructure, and Sports. Through its CSR arm, GMR Varalakshmi Foundation, GMR supports local communities, reflecting its commitment to improving quality of life by enhancing skills, providing education, and developing healthcare infrastructure and services.
Groupe ADP develops and manages airports, including Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, and Paris-Le Bourget. In 2024, the group handled through its brand Paris Aéroport 103.4 million passengers at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly, and nearly 363.7 million passengers in airports in France and abroad. Boasting an exceptional geographic location and a major catchment area, the Group is pursuing its strategy of adapting and modernizing its terminal facilities and upgrading the quality of services; the Group also intends to develop its retail and real estate businesses. In 2024, group revenue stood at €6,158 million and net income at €342 million.
For further information about GMR Group, http://www.gmrgroup.in
For further details, please contact:
Subhendu Ray
Corporate Communications
Email: subhendu.ray@gmrgroup.in
Mobile: 9971544011
Sarvottamjee M Jaipuriar
Corporate Communications
Email: sarvottamjee.jaipuriar@gmrgroup.in
Phone: 9818389621