Birmingham Airport Ltd
Net Zero Profile
Carbon Reduction Progress Status
Advanced - we are well on our way to taking action
Business Information
Company Location:
Birmingham
Sector:
Transport
Number of Employees:
Large 250+ employees
Birmingham Airport Ltd Pledge Actions:
The climate crisis presents society’s greatest challenge. We are already experiencing the effects of climate change - which will affect all of our lives, across all parts of our world, today, and for generations to come. At Birmingham Airport, we are playing our part in limiting the Earth’s temperature increase to well below 2°C, in line with the United Nations’ ambition, and have committed to becoming a Net Zero carbon Airport by 2033. We recently published our Sustainability Strategy covering a wide range of topics across the Airport. This has helped us to capitalise on previous steps made towards reducing our carbon emissions and also to make good use of the unique learning opportunity the pandemic has presented. As the recovery takes shape, we are taking time to readjust, reprioritise and focus on the next steps towards 2033 and Net Zero. While we have a track record in achieving low carbon operations, we know that meeting our commitment will require more impactful and immediate action and new investment to deliver significant change across our Airport over a short time-period.
We will communicate to all our staff, airport partners and key external stakeholders, that we have signed up to the pledge. We will use the logo where we can, and talk about our pledge when collaborating with other stakeholders in the region, encouraging organisations to sign up, where we can.
Our commitment is to be a Net Zero carbon Airport by 2033, prioritising zero carbon airport operations and minimising carbon offsets.
The decision to make the West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge is driven by Birmingham Airport’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. Acknowledging the significant carbon footprint associated with aviation activities, the pledge reflects a proactive approach to addressing climate change and reducing the airport's impact on the environment. By aligning with global initiatives, complying with potential regulatory measures, and meeting the expectations of environmentally conscious stakeholders, Birmingham Airport aims to enhance its reputation, stay ahead of industry changes, and contribute to the broader effort of mitigating climate change. Additionally, pursuing a Net Zero goal can drive operational efficiency, cost savings through sustainable practices, and the adoption of innovative technologies, positioning Birmingham Airport as a leader in environmental stewardship within the aviation sector.
To achieve our net zero target, we have implemented various initiatives:
Installed photovoltaic systems, with solar panels on the terminal roof generating around 50,000 kWh electricity per year.
Transitioned to energy efficient lighting across large parts of the airport.
Installed 25 electric vehicle charging points across the airport, for use by passengers, commercial partners and our own operations.
Operate a fleet of 20 electric vehicles, including six electric buses for passenger transfers.
Installed 580 electricity submeters on-site to better manage and control consumption.
Engaging employees and third-parties through regular net zero communications and events.
Achieved Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation.
Carbon emissions in 2022/23 25% less than 2019/20, achieved through energy demand reduction initiatives.
In line with our net zero commitment, we have laid out a road map where we plan to carry out projects that will support our net zero journey. Some of these projects include:
Building Management System upgrade,
Sustainable Aviation Fuel strategy,
Low-carbon heating and cooling upgrades,
Low energy lighting,
Next generation solar panel rollout,
Renewable heating strategy.
We’re also committed to working with our airport partners to reduce the carbon emissions that we can influence (Scope 3) in and around our Airport.
We view collaboration with external stakeholders as key to achieving our Net Zero carbon target. We are developing a partnership with a local academic institution, to share knowledge and collaborate on sustainability projects. The Airport is a member of the Solihull Sustainability Visioning Group (SSVG). The SSVG is led by senior business representatives and stakeholders from the local area, and the vision is to help Solihull be at the forefront of sustainable business development. We are a member of the Airport Operators Association, and we work with Sustainable Aviation, who have a long-term strategy with the aim of making aviation a cleaner, quieter and smarter industry. Sustainable Aviation is a coalition of UK airlines, Airports, Manufacturers and air navigation service providers. Their website can be found at https://www.sustainableaviation.co.uk/ We are supporting airlines to reduce emissions during flight through efficient airspace design and facilitating procedures for lower-carbon take-off and landing: - Enabling airlines to reduce emissions when on the ground through reduced engine taxiing and providing electricity for use by aircraft when at the stand. - Fixed Electrical Ground Power (FEGP) is provided on all aircraft stands to minimise the need to run auxiliary power units and there is an on-going programme to replace older FEGP units. An incentive scheme is now in operation to encourage the use of fixed electrical ground power on stands by airlines which reduces the need for Auxiliary Power units and reduces emissions and more than 90% of aircraft stands use these.
