Fiji Airports has become the owner of the largest electric vehicle fleet in the region after adding nine new electric vehicles to its existing fleet of 13 this year.
Chief Executive Mesake Nawari emphasized that the shift towards electric mobility is gaining momentum globally, particularly in the aviation sector, which significantly contributes to carbon emissions. He stated, “While we would like to be using 100 percent renewable energy, this is a start, and we will progressively use more clean energy in our operations once we have our solar farm established.”
Nawari described this move as a critical step in reducing the organization’s carbon footprint and enhancing the green spaces within the airport. He added, “What a time to unveil our Electric Vehicles, which is a significant stride for Fiji Airports. We currently have 11 EVs and expect to add another two soon.”
This week, the board of Fiji Airports presented keys for the new Volkswagen electric vehicles to nine managers during a Fiji Day lunch in Nadi. With this acquisition, Fiji Airports positions itself as a leader in the decarbonization of the regional transport sector.
Nawari further stated, “Fiji Airports is committed to sustainably driving our Green Airport initiatives to implement activities that will benefit the environment in the long term. We have enacted several relevant initiatives, and we will continue to expand our efforts.”
The organization’s goal is to significantly lower carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment that benefits both the airport and its surroundings.
According to Palas Auto Services, the local distributor of these electric vehicles, embracing new technologies can be challenging, yet electric vehicles are poised to bring transformative changes to the automotive industry, aligning with the “Green Initiatives” promoted by the Fijian Government.
By choosing BYD, a leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles and the third largest automotive brand globally, Fiji Airports has allied itself with the largest electric vehicle manufacturer in the world.
The acquisition of electric vehicles is part of Fiji Airports’ strategic objectives outlined in its business plan. These sustainability initiatives encompass transitioning to solar power, waste management and recycling, reducing plastic usage, implementing electric vehicles, promoting tree planting, and preserving biodiversity, among other efforts.