Emirates announced today that it has joined the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC), along with SL Metals, with the aim of unlocking the circular economy for aviation. The airline’s participation marks the continued growth of the consortium and reinforces its commitment to accelerate supply chain decarbonization through high-value circularity, following the ACC’s milestone launch of its 2050 Industry Roadmap in November 2024.
“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,” stated Ahmed Safa, head of engineering and MRO, Emirates Group.
Advancing circular aviation innovation
Emirates has embedded recycling and circular solutions within its operations as part of its sustainability strategy. From cabin interior upcycling and incorporating more sustainable materials in its products to inflight initiatives and waste reduction programs, the airline continues to explore innovative ways to reduce its environmental footprint.
By joining the ACC, Emirates will contribute to advancing circular aviation innovations, further strengthening the consortium’s collaborative momentum.
Accelerating material circularity in aviation
Meanwhile, SL Metals, a Singapore-based aluminum alloy distributor serving the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions, brings valuable expertise in aluminum solutions. The company supplies a comprehensive range of aluminum alloy products for various industries, including aerospace, precision engineering, semiconductors and more.
SL Metals’ participation in the ACC will also support ongoing efforts to drive more sustainable supply chain practices and accelerate material circularity in aviation.
“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 percent of global industrial CO2 emissions, making sustainable practices across the supply chain increasingly important. Through the ACC, we look forward to advancing best practices in aluminum use and supporting initiatives that shape a more resilient and sustainable aviation supply chain,” noted Sam Tan Yee Leong, CEO and executive director, SL Metals.
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Tackling end-of-life aircraft challenges
Recognizing that industry-wide cooperation is essential to advancing aviation circularity, the ACC continues to unite key stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem to drive meaningful progress. Emirates is the second airline to join the ACC, demonstrating the industry’s growing recognition that circularity is essential to decarbonization.
The airline’s experience in sustainable fleet management will play a crucial role in addressing the challenge of safely and responsibly handling end-of-life aircraft. Meanwhile, SL Metals’ involvement enhances the consortium’s ability to develop high-impact circular solutions, particularly as the need for critical materials in aviation continues to grow.
