How sustainable are UK Airports?

Aviation accounts for around 2.5% of global human-induced carbon emissions with airports contributing 2% of this total.

This is expected to increase as UK airports bring in initiatives to make ground operations more sustainable.

Research by the University of Surrey in partnership with airport parking company Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) has revealed what UK airports are doing to drive forward a ‘net zero’ future..

The study compares the UK’s five largest airports – London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London Luton and Manchester Airport.

It details their emissions commitments, ways of limiting noise, improving air quality as well as waste and water management.

When it comes to reaching net-zero, Manchester Airport has the most ambitious goal with a deadline of 2038.

London Luton and London Gatwick have committed to 2040 and London Heathrow by 2050.

Various initiatives are being put in place such as generating renewable energy.

Gatwick Airport is one of the first in the world to have an on-site waste processing and conversion facility.

London Heathrow reported zero emissions for grid electricity in 2022 through a Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) tariff.

Manchester Airport plans its airport structure relying entirely on renewable energy by 2030.

Air quality and noise are also important factors with Stansted and Manchester both adopting noise-efficient ‘continuous climb’ and ‘continuous descent’ approaches.

All airports have plans to eventually replace ground transportation vehicles with zero or ultra-low emissions vehicles with deadlines of 2030.

Nick Caunter, Airport Parking and Hotels MD said, “It’s encouraging to see the investments UK airports are putting towards reaching their targets.”

Dr Nadine Itani of University of Surrey said, “Airports have the potential to reduce their carbon footprint and inspire stakeholders within the aviation ecosystem.”

The partnership with APH.com has been an exciting opportunity to showcase just how much work is being carried out in and around UK airports.”