Case:

Micky Mouse International Airport (MMIA) aims to become a world-class airport by emphasizing service, on-time flights, and caring for the environment. Addressing environmental issues may be a new approach for an airport, but it has paid off for MMIA. In 2015, it became the first international airport in Jamaica to be ISO 14001 (environmental management system, or EMS) registered. MMIA did not set out to become certified; it simply wanted a structure to handle environmental issues. ISO 14001 provided guidelines for establishing an EMS. With the amount of effort put into complying with the standards, the next logical step was to become certified. There are more benefits to ISO 14001 certification than the credibility and additional transparency MMIA has received. MMIA has a structured EMS program that allows it to do more with less. Processes are documented outlining employees' duties. The employees receive training and understand what is expected of them from an EMS compliance standpoint. MMIA has been able to influence the environmental actions of others. Impressed by MMIA's accomplishments, the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew have established environmental programs for all their business operations. MMIA is working with other international airports to establish sustainability guidelines for the world's airports.

MMIA's environmental initiatives have achieved quantitative and monetary results. The goals and results are highlighted in MMIA's annual reports. Following is a list of some accomplishments:

$1.7 million in savings by recycling aircraft deicing fluid (ADF)

$160,000 in savings from decreases in gasoline and diesel usage

Over $2.1 million saved between 2017 and 2018

1,432 tons of solid waste (11.15% of total) generated in 2018 recycled

Hazardous solid wastes reduced from 20,000 pounds to 3,760 pounds in just one year

Environmental management is now incorporated into the airport's strategic planning process. The requirements and structure of ISO registration motivate MMIA to be aggressive in setting new initiatives and goals. The organization wants to be proactive to stay ahead of environmental regulation. MMIA's environmental impact extends beyond the company as it is involved in community outreach programs and participates as a member of various environmental organizations. In the end, ISO 14001 certification has enabled Mickey Mouse International Airport to progress toward environmental accountability and sustainability.

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you view as the benefits of ISO 14001 adoption and implementation?

2. Is ISO registration useful for airports? Why or why not?

3. How can the benefits of ISO registration extend outside the company