Lufthansa Airlines Sets a New Standard in Corporate Environmental Stewardship with EMAS Certification Across Its Frankfurt and Munich Locations

Published on October 14, 2025

Lufthansa Airlines remains the vanguard of corporate environmental stewardship, having once more successfully validated under the exacting European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) rule at its Frankfurt and Munich bases, and Lufthansa CityLine. This elite certification demonstrates the airline’s commitment to environmental sustainability, a key milestone in its continued drive to minimize environmental footprints and facilitate environmentally friendly practices across the group.

What is EMAS and Why Does it Matter?

The Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is a voluntary environmental management tool established by the European Union. It encourages companies to evaluate and improve their environmental performance. This rigorous certification requires organizations to continuously monitor, evaluate, and disclose their environmental impact, and it also includes regular external assessments to ensure compliance with EMAS standards. For companies like Lufthansa Airlines, obtaining and maintaining the EMAS seal not only signifies environmental responsibility but also demonstrates transparency, commitment, and an active role in minimizing ecological footprints.

A History of Sustainability at Lufthansa

Lufthansa’s dedication to sustainability dates back over two decades, with Lufthansa CityLine becoming the first airline globally to adopt an environmental concept and achieve EMAS certification in 2000. This early move set the airline apart as a pioneer in the aviation industry, long before environmental issues became a widespread focus.

Building on this foundation, Lufthansa Airlines introduced a certified environmental management system at its Munich location in 2018. This milestone was expanded upon in 2022 when Lufthansa CityLine’s EMAS system was integrated with the core Lufthansa brand. The latest expansion to include the Frankfurt hub in December 2023 further solidified Lufthansa’s position as a leader in environmental management within the aviation industry.

“With the 2025 environmental statement, we are celebrating a special anniversary: 25 years ago, Lufthansa CityLine was the first airline worldwide to receive validation according to the demanding EMAS standard. Since then, we have been continuously working on the further development of our operational environmental management system. Through more efficient use of resources and optimized processes at Lufthansa Airlines and Lufthansa CityLine, we are advancing both environmental and economic goals. We are maintaining this course even in economically challenging times,” says Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines.

Continuous Improvement Through Independent Audits

Each year, Lufthansa Airlines undergoes external assessments to validate the environmental management systems at its hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, along with Lufthansa CityLine. These rigorous audits provide an independent and comprehensive review of the company’s environmental practices, ensuring that they meet the demanding standards set by EMAS. As part of the process, specialist departments within the airline engage in detailed discussions with external assessors, providing a clear and accurate picture of the airline’s environmental performance.

The process doesn’t just stop at audits. It includes inspections and assessments to measure the environmental impact across various operational areas, including fuel consumption, waste management, emissions, and resource utilization. By combining these comprehensive evaluations with discussions from key stakeholders, Lufthansa ensures a holistic understanding of its environmental practices and a robust approach to continual improvement.

A Unified Effort Across Lufthansa Group

Lufthansa Airlines, along with Lufthansa CityLine, has committed to transparency in its environmental initiatives by jointly publishing their progress in a shared environmental statement. This approach highlights the airline’s commitment to continuously advancing its sustainable orientation and shares their successes and challenges with the public.

At Lufthansa’s Frankfurt and Munich hubs, approximately 40 dedicated environmental coordinators work across various departments to ensure the integration of environmental issues into daily operations. These coordinators promote sustainability initiatives within the organization, focusing on projects that drive tangible environmental improvements.

Digital Solutions Enhancing Environmental Transparency

One of the central strategies in Lufthansa’s commitment to sustainability is the use of digital solutions. The airline has implemented data-based analyses and monitoring systems to make its environmental impacts more transparent and to optimize the use of resources. These digital tools enable Lufthansa to track and reduce emissions effectively, leading to more informed decision-making and the identification of further opportunities for improvement.

For example, Lufthansa has optimized its flight operations to reduce fuel consumption and associated CO2 emissions. One of the significant measures includes the practice of switching off aircraft engines during taxiing, which reduces unnecessary fuel burn and lowers emissions. Additionally, Lufthansa has implemented an improved recycling concept and optimized the loading of beverage reserves on aircraft, further reducing fuel consumption and minimizing waste.

New Measures for 2024 and Beyond

In 2024, Lufthansa continues its pursuit of environmental excellence with the continuation of existing measures and the introduction of new sustainability initiatives. By enhancing its recycling processes, refining its fuel-efficient operations, and introducing innovative solutions to minimize environmental harm, Lufthansa is shaping a future where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of its business.

The airline’s approach is not only about improving current practices but also about setting a roadmap for the future. Through its digital solutions, Lufthansa aims to further integrate sustainability into its corporate culture, ensuring that every facet of its operations aligns with the airline’s long-term environmental goals.

Lufthansa’s Global Leadership in Sustainability

Lufthansa’s continued success in achieving EMAS validation at its Frankfurt and Munich hubs and Lufthansa CityLine showcases the airline’s leadership in environmental responsibility. By embracing sustainability across its operations, Lufthansa demonstrates that the aviation industry can play a pivotal role in preserving the planet for future generations.

With a history of sustainability, ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact, and innovative strategies that promote eco-friendly operations, Lufthansa Airlines is setting a powerful example for other global carriers to follow. As the airline continues to expand its environmental management practices, it is clear that sustainability will remain at the core of its business operations, ensuring that Lufthansa not only meets but exceeds environmental standards for years to come.

Conclusion

Lufthansa’s success at securing EMAS verification throughout its Frankfurt and Munich hubs, and Lufthansa CityLine, highlights the airline’s commitment to environmentally responsible corporate stewardship. By adopting sustainability through audits, digital technology, and proactive emissions and waste reduction, Lufthansa remains at the forefront of environmental leadership within the aviation sector. As the airline looks forward to the future, its commitment to sustainability will pave the way for cleaner and more responsible air transport.