From Guest Blogger Dimitris Papadoupolos: Airports Embracing Renewable Energy

Air travel has made the world more connected than ever and, until Star Trek-style quantum teleportation is developed for the masses, it’s the fastest and most convenient transportation method available.

But as the world has become more eco-conscious, activists, governments and aviation authorities have become aware of the industry’s massive carbon footprint.

The entire aviation industry obviously includes aircraft in flight as well as activities on solid ground — and while it accounts for 2 per cent of global greenhouse gas output, airports produce 5 per cent of the sector’s total.

So airports go green to cut emissions first and foremost — because of a combination of pressures from various stakeholders.

But rather than regarding it as a punishment, progressive airports have embraced sustainability as an opportunity — renewable energy can save them cash and make facilities more functional and attractive to customers.

Design

London’s Gatwick and Amsterdam’s Schiphol are now part of a growing list of carbon neutral airports around the world.

Existing airports must either adapt existing facilities and infrastructure so they’re more environmentally friendly — or ensure that any extensions include inbuilt sustainability.

The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is the most reliable yardstick for sustainable construction in any sector.

And Oslo airport achieved BREEM excellence for its latest terminal building — thanks to a plan that included using locally sourced wood from carefully managed forests, storing winter snow to cool down the building in summer and recycling 91 per cent of construction waste.

But Indira Gandhi Airport in Delhi and the Galapagos Ecological Airport have also won plaudits for their focus on sustainability.

Delhi has onsite solar power and waste recycling plants, while the Galapagos airport was built using 75 per cent recycled materials and is almost completely wind and solar powered.

Transportation

The development of biofuel technology that powers aeroplanes is in its early stages — although once it comes to fruition, it may make the biggest impact on transforming the entire sector to a cleaner and greener status.

However, planes are not the only vehicles that frequent our airports — cars, buses trucks and support vehicles also have a considerable presence.

According to The Guardian, Bristol-based renewables firm GENeco have introduced a ‘Bio Bus’ shuttle service between Bath and Bristol airport fuelled by biogas repurposed from human waste — which achieved a 180-mile range on just one tank of fuel.

But some passengers still prefer the convenience of travelling to and from their flights using their own transport.

And improvements have been made in this field too — in 2009, Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg introduced an intelligent parking guidance system that relieves congestion by signposting space availability to approaching drivers as early as possible.

And around the world, efficient airport parking companies are working hard to make their facilities more convenient and user-friendly.

Initiatives include designated spaces for car-sharing customers, low-cost LED lighting on ticket machines, and partnering with Satnav companies to reduce city-centre jams through directing drivers straight to spaces using the most optimal route.

As every airport balances embedding modern technology that makes travelling more personalised and convenient with reducing damage to the environment, renewable energy is a central ingredient in ensuring success.

Airports, like many likeminded corporate entities, have finally realised that going green makes sense for the bottom line as well as the environment.

What’s your favourite green airport? Share your thoughts in the comments section.