UNEP and ICAO Launch $82.5 Million Project to Remove Toxic Firefighting Foams from African Airports
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have announced the launch of the $82.5 million FIRE (Fortifying Infrastructure for Responsible Extinguishment) project. Initiated in Nairobi on 19 August 2025, the initiative will phase out harmful PFAS-based firefighting foams from airports in Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Funded by a $10 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and $72.5 million in partner co-financing, the project addresses growing environmental and health concerns linked to PFAS – long-lasting chemicals found in legacy firefighting products.
FIRE aims to transition airports to safer fluorine-free foam alternatives while maintaining operational safety, supporting the disposal of 4,500 tonnes of PFAS-laden waste and 130 tonnes of contaminated foam concentrate. The project is part of broader UNEP-GEF efforts targeting the global reduction of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and will serve as a model for sustainable practices in aviation safety across developing regions.
Source: UN Environment Programme
