IndiGo, through its CSR initiative IndiGoReach, has collaborated with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and AAS Foundation, Indore, to implement the Zero Waste Airport Project at Indore Airport. This initiative is focused on adopting the 4R strategy—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover—to minimise the environmental impact of airport operations, setting a new benchmark for sustainable waste management in aviation.
The project aims to reduce dependency on traditional waste disposal methods by processing daily airport waste of 750 kg on-site. The installation of a cutting-edge Material Recovery Facility (MRF) will segregate dry waste into 10 categories for recycling, while a Wet Waste Processing Unit will convert organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. The compost produced will be used to enhance the airport’s landscaping, contributing to a greener environment.
The event, attended by prominent figures including Rammohan Naidu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, and other senior leaders, also featured a guided tour of the MRF. The initiative includes training, waste segregation practices, and public awareness campaigns to engage passengers and staff in responsible waste disposal.
Outlined under the three ESG pillars: Environmental, Social, Business, and Governance, IndiGo’s ESG report features the theme “Flying Responsibly. The report also highlights the recent initiatives and achievements in the space that include energy-efficient practices, aircraft operating on Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the education and women empowerment initiatives and more.
The project is designed to be self-sustaining, with the revenue generated from compost and recycled materials used to fund the salaries of green workers, ensuring long-term viability. This public-private partnership between IndiGo, AAI, and AAS Foundation marks a significant step toward transforming waste management practices in India’s aviation sector. By adopting this sustainable model, Indore Airport is poised to lead the way in eco-friendly airport operations, benefiting both the local community and the environment.
