Fiji Airports has become the owner of the largest electric vehicle fleet in the region following the acquisition of nine additional vehicles, bringing its total to 22 electric vehicles this year.
Mesake Nawari, Chief Executive of Fiji Airports, stated that the shift towards electric mobility is gaining momentum globally, particularly in the aviation industry, which is responsible for significant carbon emissions. He emphasized the organization’s goal of moving towards 100 percent renewable energy but acknowledged that the current steps are crucial in establishing cleaner operations.
“This development marks a major milestone for Fiji Airports as we work to reduce our carbon footprint and enhance the green spaces at our airport,” Nawari remarked. He highlighted that the airport currently has 11 electric vehicles and plans to add two more soon.
The Fiji Airports Board recently handed over the keys to the new Volkswagen electric vehicles to nine managers during a celebration for Fiji Day in Nadi. This investment positions Fiji Airports as a leader in the de-carbonization of the transportation sector in the region.
“Our commitment to driving our Green Airport initiatives is unwavering as we implement sustainable activities that positively impact the environment for the long term,” Nawari added. The organization aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment that benefits the airport’s immediate surroundings and beyond.
According to Palas Auto Services, the local distributor of the electric vehicles, transitioning to new technology can be challenging, but electric vehicles are set to drive transformative change in the automotive industry, aligning with the “Green Initiatives” promoted by the Fijian Government.
By selecting BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles and the world’s third-largest automotive brand, Fiji Airports has embraced its role as part of the largest electric vehicle manufacturer’s family.
The move to acquire electric vehicles is part of Fiji Airports’ strategic objectives included in its business plan, which incorporates sustainability initiatives such as transitioning to solar power, waste management and recycling, eliminating plastic usage, implementing sustainable practices like tree and coral planting, as well as rainwater harvesting.