Fiji Airports has established itself as the owner of the largest electric vehicle (EV) fleet in the region, recently adding nine new vehicles to its existing fleet of 13.
Chief Executive Mesake Nawari emphasized the worldwide shift toward electric mobility, particularly in the aviation sector, which significantly contributes to global carbon emissions. He stated, “While we would like to be using 100 percent renewable energy, this is of course a start, and we will progressively use more clean energy in our operations once our solar farm is set up.”
Nawari highlighted the importance of this initiative for Fiji Airports, stating, “This is a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing green spaces within our airport.” He mentioned that the airport now has 11 EVs and plans to add two more soon.
This week, the Fiji Airports Board distributed keys for the new Volkswagen EVs to nine managers during a Fiji Day lunch in Nadi. With these acquisitions, the organization positions itself as a leader in the region’s efforts to decarbonize the transport sector.
Nawari reiterated Fiji Airports’ commitment to its Green Airport initiatives, which aim to implement sustainable practices that benefit the environment over time. “The aim is to drastically reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment that benefits both the airport surroundings and the broader community,” he said.
Palas Auto Services, the local distributor for the EVs, noted that while adopting new technology can be challenging, electric vehicles symbolize a transformative shift in the automotive industry and align with the “Green Initiatives” being promoted by the Fijian Government. By selecting BYD, a prominent global manufacturer of new energy vehicles, Fiji Airports is joining forces with the largest EV maker in the world.
The integration of electric vehicles is part of Fiji Airports’ strategic objectives outlined in its business plan, which also includes transitioning to solar power, waste management and recycling, eliminating plastic use, and various sustainability practices like tree planting and biodiversity maintenance.