Fiji Airports has emerged as the owner of the largest electric vehicle fleet in the region with its recent acquisition of nine additional electric vehicles, bringing its total to 22 for the year.
Chief Executive Mesake Nawari emphasized the growing global shift towards electric mobility, particularly within the aviation industry, which is a major contributor to carbon emissions. He noted, “While we would like to be using 100 percent renewable energy, this is certainly a start, and we will progressively incorporate more clean energy once our solar farm is operational.”
Nawari described the introduction of electric vehicles as a significant step toward reducing Fiji Airports’ carbon footprint and improving green spaces at the airport. “This is a momentous occasion for Fiji Airports. We currently have 11 EVs and will soon add two more,” he stated.
The Fiji Airports Board presented the keys to the new Volkswagen electric vehicles to nine managers following a Fiji Day lunch in Nadi. This purchase positions the organization as a leader in the decarbonization of the transport sector in the region.
“Fiji Airports is dedicated to advancing our Green Airport initiatives, consistently implementing activities that will have long-term environmental benefits. We have undertaken various relevant projects and will continue to expand our efforts,” Nawari added. The organization aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment both around the airport and beyond.
According to Palas Auto Services, the local distributor of the electric vehicles, embracing new technology can be challenging, but electric vehicles are poised to drive change in the automotive sector, aligning with the “Green Initiatives” spearheaded by the Fijian Government.
By choosing BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles and the third-largest automotive brand worldwide, Fiji Airports is joining the ranks of the largest electric vehicle manufacturers globally. This acquisition aligns with Fiji Airports’ strategic goal outlined in its business plan to promote sustainability.
Sustainability initiatives associated with this objective encompass a transition to solar power, waste management and recycling, eliminating plastic use, adopting electric vehicles, and engaging in sustainable practices including tree, coral, and mangrove planting, alongside the protection and maintenance of biodiversity and rainwater harvesting.