Emirates joins Aviation Circulatory Consortium (ACC)
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The airline has become second airline to join ACC helps to collaborate on sustainable initiatives reducing waste, enhancing efficiency, and accelerating aviation’s transition to a circular economy.
Emirates has joined the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC), along with SL Metals, with the aim to unlock the circular economy for aviation. The airline’s participation marks the continued growth of the ACC and reinforces its commitment to accelerate supply chain decarbonisation through high-value circularity, following the Consortium’s launch of its 2050 Industry Roadmap in November 2024.
Ahmed Safa, Head of Engineering & MRO, Emirates Group, said, “Aviation must rethink how materials are used across an aircraft’s lifecycle, from production to retirement. With the number of retired aircraft continuing to grow, the need for sustainable end-of-life solutions is more urgent than ever. At Emirates, we are identifying new pathways to extend our fleet’s lifespan, and joining the ACC enables us to collaborate on sustainable initiatives that reduce waste, enhance efficiency, and accelerate aviation’s transition to a circular economy.”
Sam Tan Yee Leong, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, SL Metals, said, “Aluminium plays a critical role in aviation, as in many other industries, making responsible sourcing and efficient material use essential. Aluminium production also accounts for 3% of global industrial CO2 emissions, making sustainable practices across the supply chain increasingly important. SL Metals remains committed to improving sustainability within our own operations while supporting broader industry-wide efforts. Through the ACC, we look forward to advancing best practices in aluminium use and supporting initiatives that shape a more resilient and sustainable aviation supply chain.”
Emirates is the second airline to join the ACC. The airline’s experience in sustainable fleet management is expected play a role in addressing the challenge of safely and responsibly handling end-of-life aircraft. At the same time, SL Metals' involvement is expected to enhance the Consortium’s ability to develop high-impact circular solutions, particularly as the need for critical materials in aviation continues to grow.