Current State and Possible Challenges in the Development of Green Airports

Abstract

In recent years, the development of green airports is on the rise, partly as a consequence of aviation's ambition to be a carbon-neutral industry by 2050. Airports play a significant role in aviation transport, therefore, their effective operation is crucial. Airports have to be built according to sustainable standards in order to maintain reduced energy, water, or heat consumption. Airports can put their efforts into achieving carbon neutrality by the means of Airport Carbon Accreditation membership, which serves as a certification of green airports. The pressure of becoming a green airport may affect the end customer - the passenger, thus studying their willingness to pay for sustainability is discussed. This paper focuses on the challenges that are posed in attaining carbon neutrality and demonstrates certain recommendations and solutions to the current challenges. Through the analysis it was concluded that the main challenges for wider implementation of environmental practices at airports are insufficient funding and governmental support, and lack of training. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness about the contribution of airports to the greenhouse gas emissions and develop new set of standards and regulations, as well as new means of governmental support to motivate airports to go green.