aircanada.com - About Air Canada - Our Commitment To The Environment

Environment
Environmental Management

At Air Canada, we are mindful of the impact that our use of energy and natural resources has on the environment.

To minimize the generation of waste as well as the emission of CO2 and other gases, Air Canada has developed an Environmental Management System based on the principles of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The ISO's standard on environmental management (ISO 14000) provides a structured approach to help companies minimize how their operations affect the environment and to help ensure compliance with industry regulations and corporate commitments.

Providing a continual cycle of planning, implementation, and review, Air Canada’s Environmental Management System ensures continuous improvement in our efforts towards meeting the mandates of our Environmental Policy, which is approved by our Board of Directors.


Our Environmental Policy

Air Canada aspires to be an environmental leader within the global airline industry as we recognize the importance of caring for the environment while conducting our operations both on the ground and in the air.

We will demonstrate environmental leadership by maintaining a management system to meet the following commitments:

  • Comply with applicable environmental legislation and regulation, and other requirements to which Air Canada subscribes;
  • Identify, prioritize, and address environmental risks in order to prevent or reduce the environmental impacts of our operations worldwide;
  • Consider environmental issues as an integral part of continuously improving our business, by setting strategies and performance goals and acting upon them in a financially responsible manner;
  • Hold management of Air Canada accountable for providing leadership on environmental matters, for achieving the specific targets and objectives the Corporation has developed, and for providing training and resources;
  • Communicate openly with our employees and other stakeholders to resolve problems, engender co-operation and facilitate mutual understanding regarding environmental concerns.
Calin Rovinescu
President and CEO, Air Canada

Environmental Management System


Corporate objectives

Air Canada has set five main environmental objectives:
  1. Optimize energy consumption and minimize emissions resulting from air and ground operations including aircraft maintenance
  2. Minimize noise from aircraft operations
  3. Ensure efficient use of resources, minimal waste generation, and appropriate waste disposal
  4. Respond effectively to accidental release of potentially harmful or hazardous substances and eliminate the future occurrence of similar incidents
  5. Promote sound environmental management policies and practices throughout the company
To fulfill these objectives, each operating unit and subsidiary establishes, implements, and maintains its own environmental objectives and targets based on the specific environmental impact of the unit's activities and operations. In addition to complying with all regulatory requirements established for the industry, each unit is encouraged to identify and implement additional opportunities, strategies, and initiatives to further contribute to the corporation’s environmental objectives.

Roles and Responsibilities