Ostend-Bruges Airport and the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) have emerged as top winners at the seventh edition of the Air Cargo Sustainability Awards.
Organized by The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) in collaboration with CHAMP Cargosystems, the event recognized leading innovations and impactful efforts driving sustainability across the global air cargo industry.
According to TIACA , these awards celebrate innovative approaches and impactful initiatives making the air cargo industry more sustainable and socially responsible.
Two categories were judged: Start-Up/Small Business and Corporate. A panel of seven esteemed industry leaders and sustainability experts evaluated entries based on their innovation, impact, feasibility, and long-term value.
Chris McDermott, CEO at CHAMP Cargosystems said, “To everyone who participated, your great innovations are driving air cargo towards a more sustainable future, proving that environmental responsibility and industry progress go hand in hand. Congratulations to all of the finalists, and a special thank you to the winners for your truly inspiring solutions. Also, my huge thanks to the TIACA team for organizing these excellent awards, and for helping to drive meaningful and sustainable change in our industry.”
Corporate Award Winner: Ostend-Bruges Airport
TIACA was proud to formally present the 2025 Corporate Sustainability Award to Nathan de Valk, Ostend-Bruges Airport for its biodiversity program—a project that exemplifies how aviation and environmental stewardship can thrive side by side.
This initiative fosters broad community engagement by partnering with local governments, farmers, and beekeepers, delivering direct benefits to stakeholders while increasing environmental awareness across the region. The program not only restores habitats and promotes wildlife conservation but also offers residents and visitors the chance to observe these efforts firsthand—strengthening public pride in biodiversity and showcasing sustainable coexistence between nature and airport operations.
Start-Up/Small Business Award Winner: Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML)
Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) was awarded first place in the Start-Up/Small Business category for its innovative Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) solution, which INSERT Description. Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) will receive a $10,000 cash prize.
Start-Up Finalist: Goods2Load, a smart B2B logistics platform designed to optimize load planning and freight matching, streamlining global trade and reducing empty space and waste in cargo shipments was awarded $2,500.
The finalists showcased their projects during TIACA’s Executive Summit 2025 in Hong Kong, where the final selection was made through a live audience vote.
“I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s Sustainability Award winners—Ostend-Bruges Airport, Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) and our outstanding finalists. Each of you exemplifies the innovation and commitment needed to create a more sustainable future for air cargo. I also want to thank every organization that submitted an entry. Your passion and hard work are helping to shape an industry that’s not only more efficient but also more responsible to our planet and our communities. TIACA is proud to champion your efforts and support your continued progress.” said Steven Polmans, Chair, TIACA
“The creativity and commitment shown by this year’s participants reaffirm that sustainability is not just a trend—it’s becoming the standard in air cargo,” said Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA. “We’re thrilled to recognize Ostend Bruges Airport and Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) as well as all the finalists who are setting the pace for our industry’s future. I also want to thank our partners at CHAMP Cargosystems and the jury for their insight and dedication.”
The official awards ceremony was held at the Executive Summit 2025 in Hong Kong.
