How ANSPs Can Successfully Pass Green ATM Submissions
Introduction
Green ATM submissions are becoming increasingly important for air navigation service providers (ANSPs). However, many organizations struggle not because they lack initiatives, but because they cannot demonstrate them in a structured, auditable way.
Passing a Green ATM submission is not about having isolated sustainability actions. It is about presenting a coherent operational system.
What Evaluators Look For
Green ATM submissions are assessed based on:
operational environmental measures
measurable performance improvements
structured documentation
governance and accountability
evidence of continuous improvement
The key question evaluators ask is simple:
Can this organization demonstrate real, repeatable environmental performance?
The Most Common Reasons ANSPs Fail
Many ANSPs fail submissions due to:
1. Fragmented initiatives
Environmental actions exist, but are not connected into a system.
2. Lack of measurable data
Improvements are described, but not quantified.
3. Weak documentation
Processes are not clearly documented or auditable.
4. ESG treated as reporting
Focus is on writing reports instead of building systems.
From Initiatives to Systems
To pass a Green ATM submission, organizations must shift from:
isolated projects → integrated operational systems
qualitative statements → measurable performance
internal knowledge → documented evidence
This transition is critical.
Green ATM is not evaluating ideas.
It evaluates execution.
What a Strong Green ATM Submission Includes
A successful submission typically demonstrates:
clear environmental objectives linked to operations
implemented operational measures (e.g. route optimization, efficiency improvements)
KPIs and performance tracking
governance structures and responsibilities
documented procedures
evidence of results over time
Everything must be:
traceable, verifiable and repeatable
The Role of Data and Evidence
Data is central to Green ATM.
ANSPs must be able to show:
emissions impact
operational efficiency gains
performance trends over time
Without data, even strong initiatives lose credibility.
Aligning Operations and ESG
One of the biggest challenges is alignment.
Successful ANSPs:
integrate ESG into operational decision-making
align sustainability teams with operational teams
ensure environmental performance is part of daily activities
This is what differentiates high-performing submissions.
Preparing for the Submission Process
Preparation should include:
mapping all environmental initiatives
structuring data collection
documenting processes
assigning clear responsibilities
validating data and evidence
The goal is not just submission.
It is audit readiness.
Green ATM as a Strategic Tool
Green ATM is more than a framework.
It is a tool to:
demonstrate leadership
strengthen stakeholder confidence
improve operational efficiency
support long-term ESG strategy
Organizations that treat it strategically gain a competitive advantage.
Conclusion
Passing a Green ATM submission is not about doing more.
It is about structuring what already exists into an operational system.
The ANSPs that succeed are those that:
organize their data
align their operations
document their processes
demonstrate measurable results
Aviation ESG – FAQ
What is Aviation ESG?
Aviation ESG refers to the environmental, social and governance requirements applied to airlines, airports and air navigation service providers. It includes emissions reduction, governance systems, and operational transparency aligned with international and EU regulations.
What is Green ATM?
Green ATM is a sustainability framework developed by CANSO that helps air navigation service providers improve environmental performance through operational efficiency, emissions reduction and structured ESG integration.
What is CORSIA in aviation?
CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) is a global scheme led by ICAO requiring airlines to monitor, report and offset CO₂ emissions from international flights.
What is EU ETS in aviation?
The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) requires airlines operating in Europe to monitor emissions and purchase carbon allowances. It is a mandatory compliance system enforced by the European Union.
What is the difference between CORSIA and EU ETS?
CORSIA is a global offsetting scheme focused on stabilizing emissions, while EU ETS is a regional cap-and-trade system requiring airlines to purchase allowances for emissions within Europe.
How do aviation organizations comply with ESG requirements?
Compliance requires structured data collection, emissions monitoring, governance processes and the ability to respond to audits and regulatory requirements such as CORSIA and EU ETS.
What is required for a Green ATM submission?
A Green ATM submission requires documented environmental initiatives, performance data, governance structures and evidence of operational measures that reduce environmental impact.
Why is ESG important for aviation contracts and operations?
ESG is now embedded in audits, procurement and partnerships. Airlines, ANSPs and airports must demonstrate compliance to maintain contracts and remain active in international markets.
How can aviation companies prepare for ESG audits?
Preparation includes building internal systems for data collection, documenting processes, aligning with regulatory frameworks and ensuring information can be verified during audits.
What role do sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) play in ESG?
Sustainable aviation fuels help reduce lifecycle emissions and are increasingly required in ESG strategies, regulatory compliance and long-term decarbonisation plans.