The $82.5 Million project aims to eliminate harmful firefighting foams in African airports.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have launched a groundbreaking initiative to eliminate toxic firefighting foams from African airports.
The Fortifying Infrastructure for Responsible Extinguishment (FIRE) project, valued at $82.5 million, will replace hazardous foams containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) known as “forever chemicals” with safer alternatives in major airports across Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.
The project includes a $10 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and $72.5 million in co-financing from partners.
PFAS are highly persistent chemicals linked to long-term environmental and health risks.
Through the FIRE project, airports will transition to fluorine-free foams while maintaining safety and operational standards.
“FIRE is an important initiative that empowers countries to eliminate one of the most harmful groups of pollutants found in firefighting foam supply chains. It supports a practical transition to safer, accessible, and affordable alternatives, showing that environmental and health protection can go hand in hand with business and operational viability,” said Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, Director of UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division.
The initiative is expected to ensure the safe removal of 4,500 tonnes of PFAS-contaminated materials from fire trucks and the disposal of 130 tonnes of PFAS-based foam concentrate.
“The FIRE project shows how sector-focused action can drive the elimination of hazardous chemicals across value chains. We hope this will inspire both participating countries and the wider aviation sector to transition to PFAS-free firefighting foams,” said Anil Sookdeo, Senior Chemicals Specialist at the GEF.
National stakeholders welcomed the move. Dr. Mohamud Gedi, CEO and Managing Director of Kenya’s Airport Authority, said:
“This project marks a significant step forward in Kenya’s commitment to protecting public health and the environment. By phasing out harmful PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams, we are safeguarding our communities and contributing to a cleaner, safer future for all.”
The FIRE Project is implemented by UNEP, executed by ICAO, and funded by the Global Environment Facility.
It is part of broader UNEP-GEF efforts to monitor and eliminate Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) globally, reducing their impact on human health and the environment.
From a global perspective, ICAO highlighted the wider importance of the project.
“The International Civil Aviation Organization is committed to supporting the adoption of safer and more sustainable firefighting practices at airports worldwide,” said Juan Carlos Salazar, ICAO Secretary General.
“The facilitation of access to safe alternatives to PFAS foams will be a very significant step for the recipient countries.”
Global Environment Facility (GEF)
The GEF is an international partnership that provides funding for projects addressing global environmental challenges.
It focuses on initiatives that reduce hazardous chemicals, protect biodiversity, combat climate change, and support sustainable development.
About the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
ICAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that sets global standards for civil aviation safety, security, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
It works with member states to promote safe, reliable, and sustainable air transport worldwide.
