Environmental Impact of Airport Operations

 

Environmental Impact of Airport Operations

        I'm sure by now you have heard of the initiative for airports and airlines to achieve zero emissions by 2050 (Reuter & Hyde, 2021) and the challenge to lower their carbon footprint by producing less CO2.  This is a major factor when considering the environmental impacts of airport operations. The emissions produced range from transport vehicles, fueling trucks, ground support equipment, and other operating equipment. All are directly related to the raising concerns about the changing climate and surrounding environment They make up additional gasses within the atmosphere, ultimately causing the temperatures of the earth's surface to rise and causing harsh environments for plants and wildlife to survive in. 

        From the position of an airport manager, it is important to evaluate and understand the impact the operations are having on the environment. Let's take Pittsburg International Airport for instance. Officials at the airport have announced their further actions in producing its own natural gas and converting it into alternative fuel (International Airport Review, 2022). I think this is a very proactive approach to better contain and minimize the fuel-driven effects that are produced through normal operations. Another example to better improve the environment would be to reduce the use of fuel functioning equipment throughout the airport. I think the first step would be by introducing electric vehicles to all areas in use. Having electric vehicles supporting the operations, transporting baggage, supporting maintenance functions, fueling, and emergency response will allow the airport to leverage its practice into the next field of concern (Voskaki, 2015). though the impact on the environment is a full circle, I think it all starts with the usage of equipment and sources of power. This seems to be a trickle effect downstream that ultimately will have an impact on the overall surrounding area of the airport. 

Reuter, T. & Hyde, d. (2021) Creating zero-emission aviation with hydrogen and electric power. World Economic Forum. Retrieved from: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/07/targeting-true-net-zero-aviation/

International Airport Review (2021) Pittsburgh Airport’s new strategy to reduce aviation emissions. Retrieved from: https://www.internationalairportreview.com/news/177059/pittsburgh-airports-new-strategy-to-reduce-aviation-emissions/

Voskaki, A. (2015) Airport Environmental Impacts. Green Clean Guide. Retrieved from: https://greencleanguide.com/airport-environmental-impacts/