Malaysia's main airport operator has said it aims to become a world leader in championing environment-friendly practices among its customers.

The company, which operates Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), was launching its Project Green Planet project, and plans an array of programmes, including exhibitions, an environment guidebook for travellers, and a "pledge-a-plant" campaign.

"Malaysia Airports aims to lead the way in the aviation world in stimulating an environment conscious society," the company's managing director, Bashir Ahmad, said in a press release on United Nations World Environment Day.

Bashir said KLIA is the only airport in the world to receive a Green Globe certification, which promotes environmentally-friendly practices.

"We want to set a good example, not only to position KLIA as a renowned airport ... but also as an airport which is committed in enhancing the quality of environment and ultimately life," he said.

Malaysia Airports operates 39 airports around the country, including its flagship KLIA, and Malaysia's low-cost carrier terminal.

Andrew Drysdale, regional vice president of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said last month the aviation sector was being unfairly labelled as a big pollution offender, despite only accounting for two percent of heat-trapping carbon emissions worldwide.