In this exclusive interview with MRO Business Today, CEO of AJW Aviation and AJW Technique, Clyde Buntrock FCILT, offers a detailed look into the Group’s sustainability strategy.  

Buntrock outlines AJW Group‘s sustainability goals and how they align with the aviation industry’s global ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. “Our approach is grounded in realistic, data-led goals," he states, “targeting an annual emissions reduction of 1%, supported by AI-driven energy monitoring systems that help us identify and implement efficiency measures.” 

“A significant focus is also placed on increasing our use of solar energy year-on-year, building on a 10% increase already achieved. In parallel, we are strengthening procurement standards to ensure that our suppliers align with our sustainability values and demonstrate credible environmental credentials.” 

Buntrock states that sustainability is fully embedded into AJW’s corporate strategy and daily operations. “In 2023, we became signatories of the United Nations Global Compact, aligning our business practices with its four pillars: Human Rights, Labour, Environment, and Anti-Corruption. These principles are inherent to how we operate,” he says.

Turning to the company’s MRO facilities and discussing sustainable practices implemented at AJW Technique, he affirms, “We utilise AI-linked Building Management Systems to monitor and optimise energy usage.”

The Group’s Montreal facility operates in a region powered primarily by hydroelectric energy, and it recently completed a full LED retrofit, replacing oversized air compressors with energy-optimised models. 

He discusses sourcing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chemical products and the use of sustainable packaging where possible. Furthermore, the implementation of a new managed print solution at the end of 2024, has helped offset the company’s carbon footprint by 8 MTCO²E, and its biomass by 109 trees.

Is AJW using any circular economy practices in its MRO operations, asks MRO Business Today?
 

“Our operations are rooted in circular economy principles, repairing and recycling aircraft components to reduce waste, energy usage, and reliance on virgin materials,” explains Buntrock.  

He shares that where parts cannot be repaired, the Group ensure they are disassembled and segregated for maximum recycling efficiency. “By prioritising reuse over replacement, we reduce the demand for newly manufactured parts, thereby lowering associated emissions and conserving raw materials,” he adds. 

AJW recently achieved ISO 14001 certification, an internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems designed to ensure that an organisation systematically manages its environmental responsibilities in a way that contributes to sustainability.

“Our AI-driven energy monitoring platform plays a crucial role by analysing usage patterns and recommending real-time efficiency improvements,” says Buntrock.

The expansion of AJW’s solar power infrastructure at its UK headquarters has avoided over 425 tonnes of CO₂ emissions to date through solar energy generation. “These initiatives reflect our commitment to making meaningful, measurable progress in sustainability, not just symbolic gestures,” he says.

Digitalisation plays a crucial role in the Group’s sustainability strategy enabling data-driven decision-making. Further to the above, the Group is using AI and advanced analytics to optimise maintenance schedules and inventory management, helping to reduce unnecessary part replacements, overproduction, and the emissions associated with excess freight.

AJW’s PBH (Power-by-the-Hour)  programme is an operational element that supports its sustainability practices by reducing excess inventory, freight emissions, or unnecessary repairs. “By sharing parts across a network, we reduce the need for each customer to stock rarely used items, which decreases overproduction and waste...this helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping and warehousing. It’s a more efficient and sustainable model that benefits both the environment and our customers’ bottom lines,” says Buntrock.

The Group will continue investing in solar infrastructure, energy-efficient equipment, and AI-driven operational technologies while deepening engagement with like-minded supply chain partners to strengthen AJW’s ESG credentials.

Buntrock closes the interview with words that inspire a sustainable future for the aviation industry.

“Sustainability is essential for resilience and relevance in today’s aviation industry. AJW Group believes that by embedding sustainability into our operations, we not only contribute to a healthier planet but also secure long-term competitiveness and trust in a fast-changing global market. MROs such as AJW Technique who lead in this space will be the ones who thrive.”