OREANDA-NEWS. Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) today released its Sustainability Report 2013/2014, "Sustaining our Capacity - Addressing Emerging Constraints". The report explains how Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) continues to support the sustainable development of Hong Kong despite faster-than-forecast air traffic growth putting pressure on the operating capacity of the existing two-runway system.

Covering fiscal year 2013/2014, which ended 31 March 2014, the report sets out the AA's approach and performance in four key sustainability areas relevant to airport operations: economic contribution, operational and service excellence, environment, and people and the community.

Vincent Lo Hong-sui, Chairman of the AA, said, "The AA strives to reinforce HKIA's status as an international and regional aviation centre, and to maintain its contribution to our city's economy and the creation of a better society. This report not only explains to our stakeholders the challenges of operating a world-class airport as it approaches capacity, but also the success stories and innovative solutions that demonstrate our ongoing commitment to the sustainable growth of HKIA. I am particularly delighted with the progress made in managing our environmental footprint. Despite passenger volume growing by 6.1% in 2013/2014, our total electricity consumption dropped by 4.2%. This is one of our biggest environmental footprint reductions since the opening of the airport in 1998."

The reduction in the AA's electricity consumption was largely the result of two major initiatives: the LED replacement programme and the chiller optimisation programme. Upon completion of both programmes, about 20 million kWh in electricity consumption per annum will be saved, equivalent to approximately 12,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

In the area of people and the community, the AA has been working closely with the airport community to address staff concerns such as transportation to and from the airport. Through the Airport Transportation Liaison Group - which was set up by the AA and comprises representatives from Transport Department, airport business partners and public transport operators - more than 60 bus trips were added, new bus fare discounts were introduced and various facility enhancements were made during the year.

This year's sustainability report fulfilled the requirements of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Application Level A+ and was verified by the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency, thereby providing greater transparency and accountability for our stakeholders. The AA also referenced the Environmental, Social and Governance Reporting Guide issued by The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited during the preparation of the report.