Fiji Airports has become the owner of the largest electric vehicle fleet in the region after acquiring nine additional vehicles, bringing its total to 22 EVs for the year. Chief Executive Mesake Nawari highlighted the global shift towards electric mobility, particularly in the aviation industry, which significantly contributes to carbon emissions.
“We aspire to use 100 percent renewable energy, and while this is just the beginning, we intend to progressively incorporate more clean energy into our operations once our solar farm is operational,” Nawari stated. He emphasized that this move is a major step for Fiji Airports in reducing its carbon footprint and improving the green environment around the airport.
At a recent Fiji Day lunch in Nadi, the Fiji Airports Board presented keys to the new Volkswagen EVs to nine managers. With this purchase, the organization has positioned itself as a leader in decarbonizing the transport sector in the region.
“Fiji Airports is dedicated to driving our Green Airport initiatives, consistently implementing activities that will benefit the environment over time. We are committed to reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a cleaner environment for both the airport’s immediate vicinity and the broader community,” he added.
According to Palas Auto Services, the local distributor of the EVs, embracing new technology can be challenging, yet electric vehicles symbolize a transformative shift in the automotive industry, aligning with the “Green Initiatives” promoted by the Fijian Government. The adoption of BYD vehicles, a leading global manufacturer in new energy vehicles and the third largest automotive brand worldwide, further highlights Fiji Airports’ commitment to sustainability.
The acquisition of electric vehicles is part of Fiji Airports’ strategic objectives, which also include a transition to solar power, waste management and recycling, eliminating plastic use, tree and coral planting, and various biodiversity preservation initiatives.