The International Air Transport Association (IATA) launched the Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP) at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in Hong Kong (October 21-22).

ISP is a certification program offering airlines a comprehensive sustainability management and assessment framework. It is designed specifically for airlines and built upon the successful IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA).

Along with certification, the program includes training, consulting, assessments, guidance, and tools in four critical modules: 

(1) environmental management; 

(2) sustainable procurement; 

(3) social responsibility 

(4) sustainability performance. 

ISP certifications and modules can be pursued individually or as a fully integrated sustainability program. Certifications are subject to a recurring 2-year cycle of independent assessments.

First Movers

At the WSS in Hong Kong, it was also announced that Air New Zealand and EVA Air are the first two carriers to receive the Sustainable Procurement certification under the ISP.

Future Development

ISP will evolve over time as IATA continues to work with a broad spectrum of industry participants and stakeholders to ensure that industry standards, guidance, and certifications remain practical and impactful.
At present, ISP is only available to airlines. However, it will evolve to ground handlers, cargo handlers, airports, MROs (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul), and caterers.