KONE's Bold Leap into the Future of Travel and Sustainability

December 2, 2024, 5:23 pm
KONE
KONE
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Location: Finland, Mainland Finland, Espoo
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1910
KONE Corporation is making waves in the world of transportation and sustainability. With a recent contract to modernize King Fahd International Airport (KFIA) in Saudi Arabia, KONE is not just elevating buildings; it’s elevating the travel experience. This project is a crucial step in reshaping how millions of passengers navigate through one of the busiest airports in the region.

King Fahd International Airport, also known as Dammam International Airport, is a bustling hub. It served over 11.4 million passengers last year, and that number is on the rise. In 2023, passenger traffic surged by 16.2%. This growth is a testament to Saudi Arabia's ambitious plans to enhance its aviation connectivity. The Saudi National Aviation Strategy aims to accommodate 330 million passengers by 2030. KONE’s modernization project is a vital cog in this expansive machine.

KONE’s suite of people flow solutions will transform the airport’s infrastructure. The company will install 30 new KONE MonoSpace® elevators, upgrade 31 KONE EcoMod escalators, and add 14 KONE EcoMod auto walks. This overhaul is designed to streamline the movement of an estimated 200,000 daily users. It’s not just about moving people; it’s about creating a seamless travel experience. The goal is to make the airport not just functional but also attractive to travelers.

The project is set to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025. KONE’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact during installation is commendable. The new energy-efficient models will significantly reduce the airport's carbon footprint. This aligns perfectly with global trends toward sustainability in infrastructure.

KONE is not just a player in the elevator and escalator industry; it’s a leader. The company recently received a Gold Medal for sustainability excellence from EcoVadis, ranking in the top 5% of over 130,000 companies evaluated. This recognition underscores KONE’s commitment to sustainability. It’s a badge of honor that reflects years of hard work and dedication.

The EcoVadis assessment evaluates companies based on four categories: environment, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. KONE has consistently achieved gold or above ratings since 2018. This year, it ranked in the 97th percentile in its industry. Such accolades are not just for show; they represent KONE’s ongoing efforts to combat climate change and promote ethical practices.

KONE’s sustainability strategy is ambitious. The company aims to create a safe and inclusive workplace while building trust across its value chain. Its eco-efficient solutions, like the regenerative drive and EcoDisc® motor, are designed to reduce energy consumption. These innovations help customers lower operational costs and minimize their carbon footprints. KONE is not just selling products; it’s selling a vision of a sustainable future.

The company’s commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by its recognition in various external assessments. KONE has received an ‘A’ score in CDP’s climate listing for 11 consecutive years. It has also been recognized on the CDP 2023 Supplier Engagement Rating Leaderboard. These accolades highlight KONE’s consistent progress in sustainability and its role as a leader in the industry.

As KONE embarks on this modernization project at KFIA, it is also setting a precedent for future developments. The airport will not only meet global green standards but will also enhance mobility solutions for travelers. This is a significant step toward creating smarter, more sustainable cities.

In a world where climate change is a pressing concern, KONE’s initiatives are a breath of fresh air. The company is not just responding to market demands; it is anticipating the future. By investing in sustainable technologies and practices, KONE is paving the way for a greener tomorrow.

The modernization of King Fahd International Airport is more than just an upgrade; it’s a transformation. It symbolizes a shift in how we think about travel and infrastructure. KONE is at the forefront of this change, leading the charge toward a more sustainable and efficient future.

As the world continues to evolve, KONE’s vision for smart, connected infrastructure will play a crucial role. The company is not just moving people; it’s moving the industry forward. With each project, KONE is shaping the future of cities, one elevator and escalator at a time.

In conclusion, KONE’s modernization of KFIA and its commitment to sustainability are intertwined. They represent a holistic approach to infrastructure development. As KONE continues to innovate and lead, the impact will be felt far beyond the airport. It’s a journey toward a sustainable future, and KONE is steering the ship.