CWT - Industry Trends/Innovations

Industry Trends/Innovations

Environmental goals outlined for North American airports

As part of a growing trend, airports across North America are designing, conserving, and recycling their way into a greener future. Many of these environmental programs are producing savings that will help contain airport costs for their airline occupants.

Greg Principato, president of the Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), recently announced adoption of "ambitious airport environmental goals" to be accomplished by members over the next decade. Among the adopted goals are: Every member airport "will strive to have an environmental policy statement by 2010" and an Environmental Management System in place by 2014 at large airports, 2016 at medium airports and 2019 at small airports.

The council also set specific target dates in areas affecting climate, local air quality, energy conservation, noise, water quality, and waste management. The goals include increased recycling, water conservation, spill reduction training, widespread introduction of low-emission ground vehicles, and loading bridges equipped with pre-conditioned air and power.

ACI-NA’s membership comprises 174 airport operators with 366 airports in the United States and 49 airport operators with 180 airports in Canada.

Sources: ATW Online, www.aci-na.org