-By Udai Singh
Sustainable airports are emerging as a beacon of hope as nations across the globe intensify their efforts to achieve their climate targets. These airports prioritize the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and energy-efficient technologies to optimize energy consumption. To become sustainable, airports require advanced technologies, automation, and digitalization across all their operations, which as a corollary improves efficiency, safety, and passenger experience, and reduces carbon emissions.
These advancements have ushered in the age of Airport 4.0. Leading the charge in building green airports are some of the world’s most progressive aviation hubs, including Helsinki Airport in Finland, Indira Gandhi International Airport in India, Changi Airport in Singapore, and the San Francisco International Airport in the USA. India is gradually taking the lead in sustainable airport development, with most airports progressing towards becoming carbon-neutral by December 2024 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
The blueprint for sustainable airports prioritizes a diverse range of solutions across key areas. These may encompass energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, carbon emissions reduction, green infrastructure, and community engagement. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in shaping an airport’s sustainability initiatives.
Deployment of energy-efficient technologies
The deployment of energy-efficient technologies is a key factor in making airports more sustainable. Such technologies can help airports reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and minimize their environmental impact. Sustainability improvements often start by focusing on airports’ biggest energy consumers – heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC). The adoption of smart HVAC systems significantly improves engineering efficiency and gives airports better control and management of their systems. This enables airports to save energy by adjusting the temperature based on real-time requirements. Bristol Airport in the UK is a great example of how the integration of HVAC systems can help airports to efficiently meet their energy goals.
Microgrids are another crucial technology for airports & sustainable future because of their green, resilient power, and essential energy security. JFK Airport is leveraging microgrid solutions to reduce energy use by as much as 30%. Microgrids are self-contained electrical networks that give airports the ability to manage their on-site power with the control to use it when and how they want.
They can integrate renewable energy and optimize their use with features such as on-site storage, like batteries and fuel cells, that can store energy from on-site generation that would otherwise be wasted. These energy-efficient technologies are critical for airports to reduce their carbon footprint, achieve sustainability goals, and contribute to a greener planet.
Overhaul of the ground support equipment
An important area of focus for sustainable airports is the overhaul of ground support equipment. Transitioning from diesel-powered equipment to electric ground support equipment (e-GSE) is a crucial step toward carbon neutrality. This will not only reduce on-site CO2 emissions and noise pollution but also improve the respiratory health of airside workers. Many of the world’s largest airports, such as London Heathrow and Hong Kong International Airport, are already making the switch to e-GSE.
Prioritizing sustainable waste management
With the massive amount of waste generated by airports, effective waste management strategies are essential to minimize environmental impact, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and prevent soil and water pollution. Bangalore Airport in India is one of the airports that have taken the lead in this field. Recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy initiatives are some of the methods used by airports to manage waste effectively. This involves purchasing products made from recycled materials, selecting vendors that prioritize sustainability, and reducing packaging waste. Many airports are also implementing waste-to-energy programs, which involve converting waste into energy through incineration or other methods, to help reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills.
Water Management
Airports and everything associated with their administration consume a significant quantity of water, and given the current climatic scenario we are in, we should seek sustainable alternatives to water consumption and maximize water usage efficiency. One way airports are reducing water consumption is through water recycling and reuse programs. By capturing and treating wastewater for non-potable uses, such as landscape irrigation and toilet flushing, airports can significantly reduce their water consumption. Installing low-flow fixtures, such as toilets, faucets, and showerheads is another simple and effective way to reduce water consumption without compromising performance.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is an excellent example of an airport that has successfully implemented water conservation principles. SFO has implemented a comprehensive water conservation program that includes water recycling and reuse, low-flow fixtures, xeriscaping, and leak detection and repair. As a result, SFO has reduced its water consumption by 10% since 2015, saving over 50 million gallons of water per year.
Thus, it is clear that with the continued adoption of sustainable practices, airports will play a vital role in achieving a greener planet and promoting economic growth and social responsibility. The aviation industry is making strides towards a more sustainable future by reimagining its practices to thrive in the age of Industry 4.0. As air travel continues to grow, it is crucial for the industry to prioritize sustainability and work towards a more sustainable future for all.
(Udai Singh is the VP-Power Systems, Greater India at Schneider Electric.)
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