Fiji Airports has expanded its electric vehicle fleet, now owning the largest in the region, with the recent addition of nine vehicles to its existing 13 EVs this year. Chief Executive Mesake Nawari emphasized the global shift toward electric mobility, especially within the aviation sector, which significantly contributes to carbon emissions.
Nawari expressed the goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy, noting that this is a substantial starting point, and plans to increase the use of clean energy in operations once a solar farm is established. He highlighted this move as crucial for reducing the airport’s carbon footprint and improving green spaces around the facility.
With the unveiling of the electric vehicles, Fiji Airports now has a total of 11 EVs and plans to add two more soon. The board recently handed over the keys to nine managers during a Fiji Day lunch in Nadi. This initiative positions Fiji Airports as a leader in the decarbonization of the regional transport sector.
The organization is committed to advancing its Green Airport initiatives to implement sustainable practices that will benefit the environment in the long term. The focus is on drastically reducing carbon emissions, ultimately contributing to a cleaner environment for the airport and surrounding areas.
Palas Auto Services, the local distributor of the EVs, remarked that while embracing new technology can be challenging, electric vehicles represent a significant shift in the automotive industry, aligning with the “Green Initiatives” promoted by the Fijian Government. By selecting BYD vehicles, a global leader in new energy cars, Fiji Airports has joined the ranks of the world’s largest EV manufacturer.
The acquisition of electric vehicles is part of Fiji Airports’ strategic objectives detailed in its business plan. Sustainability initiatives under this goal include transitioning to solar power, waste management and recycling, eliminating plastic use, and various environmental conservation efforts, including tree planting and biodiversity maintenance.