The Critical Challenge of Reducing Aviation Emissions
Airports around the world are stepping up to the urgent challenge of decarbonizing aviation, one of the most critical issues facing the industry in the coming years. Regardless of size or location, many airports are developing comprehensive decarbonization roadmaps that set out short, medium and long-term sustainability goals.
Airports’ Multi-Pronged Approach to Cutting Carbon
To make real progress, airports are taking a multi-faceted approach:
- Reducing Scope 1 & 2 emissions – Airports are focusing first on emissions under their direct control, which make up about 3% of total airport emissions. This includes initiatives like installing solar panels, electrifying ground operations, and improving energy efficiency.
- Facilitating Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) – Airports are working to increase the supply and use of SAF, which will be critical for reducing Scope 3 emissions from aircraft in the medium term. This includes blending mandates, incentive schemes, and partnerships with airlines and fuel suppliers.
- Preparing for New Propulsion Technologies – Looking to the long term, airports are laying the groundwork for alternative propulsion technologies like electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft. This will require significant investments in new infrastructure and clean energy supply.
Innovative Decarbonization Strategies from Leading Airports
Trailblazing airports are already implementing innovative sustainability strategies:
- Dubai International Airport has installed a massive rooftop solar system covering three football fields worth of space to power 29% of Terminal 2
- Rome-Fiumicino Airport is developing 60MW of solar power, deploying hundreds of EV chargers, and pioneering second-life battery storage
- Sofia Airport in Bulgaria is electrifying its entire ground handling fleet
- Dallas-Fort Worth is exploring using airport waste as feedstock for SAF production
- Changi Airport has introduced a compulsory passenger levy to fund SAF use
Airports: Key Drivers of Sustainable Aviation
As aviation ecosystem hubs, airports are uniquely positioned to accelerate the sector’s decarbonization by partnering on SAF, implementing stringent green requirements, pioneering new technologies, and advocating for critical policies and investments. Their multi-pronged efforts are crucial to securing a sustainable future for air travel.
