By: Christopher Jones - Environmental Specialist at Airports Company South Africa

In an era where climate change is at the forefront of global concerns, the aviation industry finds itself at a critical juncture. While historically known for its significant carbon footprint, the sector is now embracing a transformative shift towards a more holistically sustainable focus. Airports form the cornerstone for sustainable development within aviation as they are the focal point for airlines, ground handlers, passengers and cargo. Airports can, and must be, the drivers for change.

Matters relating to airport sustainability, wildlife conservation and climate adaptation took centre stage at the recent 33rd Airports Council International (ACI) Africa General Assembly and Regional Conference held from 16 to 22 September 2024 in Johannesburg.

Deliberations on this subject were squarely rooted on the reality that airports are often situated near natural habitats, making wildlife conservation a critical aspect of their sustainability initiatives. Protecting and restoring these habitats can help maintain biodiversity and support local ecosystems.

Two areas where airports can make a substantial difference are the focus on wildlife conservation and emissions reductions. These efforts are not only crucial for environmental sustainability but can enhance the overall operational efficiency and reputation of airports.

An example of this can be seen at London Gatwick Airport which has created green spaces and wildlife corridors around the airport premises to provide safe havens for various species. This can be coupled with effective wildlife management programmes that can prevent runway incidents, thus ensuring the safety of both aircraft and wildlife.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has been at the forefront of managing and controlling wildlife at its airports with dedicated teams of Wildlife Officers. Through the use of highly trained dogs, specialist pyrotechnic tools, and science-based habitat management, ACSA has demonstrated excellence in bird and wildlife control, reducing the number and severity of bird strikes on airlines operating into and out of its airports.

As the demand for air travel continues to grow post-COVID-19, aviation must adopt robust emissions reduction strategies to mitigate its environmental footprint. A promising solution is to transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuels that can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels.

The aviation fraternity has adopted the Long-Term Aspirational Goal for Carbon Neutrality stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which sets out the trajectory for carbon neutral civil aviation by 2050. The use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is the basis for the reductions in carbon emissions in this plan.

Airports can and must support the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuels by providing the necessary infrastructure and access for airlines. They can also significantly cut energy consumption and emissions by implementing energy-efficient technologies in airport operations, such as LED lighting, solar panels and advanced HVAC systems. Further to this, depending on their location, airports can incorporate wind, solar or thermal renewable power to power their operations. The combination of alternative energy sources and high efficiency equipment leads to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. By embedding sustainability into every aspect of their operations, airports can create a more resilient and environmentally friendly aviation industry.

A holistic approach that combines emission reduction with wildlife conservation can yield significant environmental benefits. Airports can create green spaces and wildlife habitats within their premises to support biodiversity while also acting as carbon sinks. Airports such as Queenstown Airport in New Zealand and Zurich Airport in Switzerland have developed wetlands and green roofs that provide habitats for local wildlife and help reduce carbon. Integrating these efforts into overall sustainability plans can enhance the airport’s environmental stewardship and community relations.

By following the framework provided by the Airports Council International’s (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, airports can distinguish themselves by calculating their carbon footprints, reducing those emissions, and ultimately achieving carbon neutrality. The programme awards accreditation to specific levels with demonstration of verifiable carbon management activities. ACSA has been a proud member of the ACI Airport Carbon Accreditation programme and currently has four airports represented at Level 2 in the scheme, that proves the airport is reducing its emissions over time. These proud airports are OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport.

To integrate the twin strategies of decarbonisation and biodiversity management, airports can develop comprehensive sustainability plans that outline specific goals, actions and timelines. However, challenges such as high initial costs, regulatory hurdles, and the need for stakeholder collaboration can impede progress.

Solutions include securing funding through public-private partnerships, advocating for supportive policies and fostering collaboration among airlines, government agencies and local communities.

The environmental impact of aviation operations necessitates urgent and concerted efforts by all members of the aviation value-chain to adopt lower carbon aviation fuels, improve energy efficiency, implement alternative energy programmes and adopt innovative technologies. By also focusing on protecting wildlife and natural habitats, airports can successfully ensure a substantial difference.