Source: ACI-LAC

  • Awards were presented during the leading airport industry event in Latin America and the Caribbean, held this year in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Airports Council International – Latin America and Caribbean (ACI-LAC) celebrated, this Monday afternoon (October 6), during the ACI-LAC 2025 Annual Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Trinidad and Tobago, the commitment of regional airports to developing and implementing innovative projects in two key areas of the airport industry: decarbonization and the use of technology to enhance the passenger experience.

Young Professional Award Highlights the Importance of Cybersecurity in the Airport Environment

In 2025, the Young Professional Award was presented to Rafael Cotelo, internal auditor and cybersecurity specialist at Aeropuertos Uruguay, for his outstanding project promoting a cybersecurity culture in airports. His proposal analyzes the impact of cyber threats on the airport ecosystem—both globally and regionally—emphasizing the need to strengthen prevention and response capabilities.

Through real-world case studies that reveal vulnerabilities and risks, along with a detailed overview of measures implemented across the Aeropuertos Uruguay network, Cotelo addresses today’s digital challenges with regionally adapted solutions. He proposes forward-looking, collaborative strategies aimed at building a strong cybersecurity culture across the sector.

The Young Professional Award was created to encourage young talent working at ACI-LAC member airports to share innovative projects that drive industry advancement. Over the past months, applicants submitted detailed studies showcasing technological solutions to improve the airport passenger experience. Projects were evaluated by a jury of senior aviation executives. The award is supported by SITA, a World Business Partner and leading provider of airport technology solutions.

Green Airport Recognition Highlights 15 Biodiversity-Focused Initiatives

The Green Airport Recognition program promotes environmental initiatives at airports across Latin America and the Caribbean, covering areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, carbon emissions, climate adaptation, ecosystem restoration, and carbon capture mechanisms. The initiative is coordinated by ACI-LAC’s Environment and Sustainability Committee.

In 2025, 15 projects focused on biodiversity preservation and the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) met ACI-LAC’s criteria and were recognized through the Green Airport Recognition program. These projects will be featured in an upcoming best practices publication. One initiative received special recognition.

Special Recognition:

Motiva Aeroportos – Biodiversifica

Biodiversifica is a pioneering initiative that integrates biodiversity into airport sustainability strategies. It engages Motiva Airports in wildlife conservation, restoration of degraded areas, and risk mitigation for fauna.

With projects such as the Jaguar Conservation Project in Iguazú (IGU), spring restoration in Goiânia (GYN), and beach and river cleanups in São Luís (SLZ), Navegantes (NVT), Uruguaiana (URG), Pelotas (PNZ), Palmas (PMW), and Petrolina (PET), Biodiversifica combines science, institutional partnerships, and community engagement to reduce environmental impact and raise large-scale awareness. The program has already identified over 120 species through genetic monitoring and promotes the protection of endangered species and the appreciation of cultural resources.

Additional Projects Recognized for Their Impact:

  • AERODOM – Sea Turtle Conservation in the Dominican Republic
  • ASUR – Biodiversity Tourism in Indigenous Communities, Yucatán, Mexico
  • Belo Horizonte Airport – Wildlife Crossing Infrastructure
  • OPAIN – Biodiversity Conservation at El Dorado
  • São Paulo Catarina Airport – Puma Conservation Project
  • ECOGAL – Baltra Biodiversa
  • AEROSTAR – Bee Conservation and Management Program at SJU
  • AENA Brasil – Wildlife Focus: Sound System Innovation for Air Safety
  • Quiport – UIO Natural Lab: Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions Integration
  • Querétaro International Airport – Green Air Footprint
  • Florianopolis International Airport – Sustainable Bee Management
  • Martinique Airport – EcoBypass: Innovative Rainwater Management and Biodiversity Preservation at Aimé Césaire Airport
  • Vitória International Airport – Safe Skies: Protection of Southern Lapwings
  • AERIS Costa Rica – Comprehensive Bee Management and Conservation Program at AIJS

Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI-LAC, emphasized the importance of initiatives that foster sustainability and a culture of innovation in the airport industry: “Initiatives like the Green Airport Recognition and the Young Professional Award reinforce the commitment of regional airports to reducing environmental impact while cultivating creativity and renewal. Decarbonization, biodiversity preservation, and cybersecurity are strategic priorities that demand collaborative and visionary solutions. Recognizing innovative projects also encourages the emergence of new ideas, preparing our airports to respond efficiently and responsibly to global challenges. By advancing these initiatives, we strengthen a network of resilient and sustainable airports—more connected than ever to the needs of society and passengers.”