Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), dimmed or switched off non-essential lights around the airport yesterday (March 27) as it celebrated this year’s Earth Hour.

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organized by the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The event is held annually and encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential lights for one hour between 8.30 pm and 9.30 pm as a symbol of commitment to the planet.

"BAC is proud to support this global initiative and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment,” BAC Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah was quoted as saying in a Bahrain News Agency (BNA) report.

“We are also keen to play a role in the government’s strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2060, which will help to create a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Kingdom. In line with this commitment, we have made significant improvements through the Airport Modernization Program that minimize the airport’s environmental impact.”

"Bahrain International Airport is Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Gold-certified and employs sustainability strategies that reduce energy and water use, improve waste management, and enhance indoor air quality,” he added.

“Cooling systems are the main drivers of electricity consumption in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which is why the airport uses an energy recovery system that saves approximately 23%. The airport’s advanced Building Management System also controls fluctuating demands like heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and artificial lighting, resulting in further energy savings.”

BAC continues to implement strategic projects aimed at conserving energy and protecting the environment. An Environment Committee composed of key airport stakeholders was established to reduce energy and carbon emissions, and an Energy and Water Committee was formed internally to help further improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.