The Emirates Group has published its seventh annual Environmental Report which outlines the Group’s environmental performance for the financial year 2016-2017.

Audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the report presents environmental sustainability initiatives and performance data from a range of Group activities covering airline operations, dnata’s cargo and ground handling businesses, and other commercial activities such as engineering and catering.

With 2017 being the United Nations International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the Group has linked its environmental priorities to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to help it focus better on where it can have the greatest impact.

A key part of the Group’s environmental strategy is operating an eco-efficient fleet which now includes only Airbus A380s, Boeing 777s, and Boeing 777Fs, with average age of 5.3 years.

A modern wide body fleet delivers lower engine and noise emissions, and offers customers a higher level of comfort.

On board, the airline now provides sustainably-made blankets in Economy Class on long-haul flights. Each warm fleece blanket is made from 28 recycled plastic bottles.

Its ground handling operations in Dubai and around the world have been gradually replacing vehicles and ground service equipment with electric/hybrid equipment, reducing emissions.

The Group continued its strong support for action against the illegal trade in wildlife, and through its “A Greener Tomorrow” initiative contributed to three organisations in Africa.