Athens International Airport (AIA) has achieved a 21-pct reduction in annual carbon emissions at its facilities -- corresponding to more than 14,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide -- a reduction larger than the anticipated European target of 20 pct by 2020, it was announced on Tuesday.

AIA participates in the volunteer initiative for the management and reduction of carbon emissions in airports launched in 2009.

A total of 55 European airports, representing 52 pct of Europe’s passenger traffic, have received Airport Carbon Accreditation.