Sydney Airport announces range of new sustainability goals

Sydney Airport announces range of new sustainability goals
Edited by Travel Weekly


    Sydney Airport has committed to supporting the decarbonisation of the aviation industry, announcing a number of goals for their journey to net zero by 2030.

    Sydney Airport is:

    • A supporter of the global goal of 10 per cent sustainable aviation fuels by 2030
    • Committed to net zero emissions by 2030 (Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions)
    • Will reduce Scope 3 emissions by 50 per cent from airport ground operations by 2025
    • On track to be using 100 per cent renewable electricity by 2025
    • Providing $1 million per year to local environmental projects including bush regeneration works across Sydney Airport Wetlands

    The most urgent aviation industry priority is developing a sustainable aviation fuel industry in Australia.

    Australia can have a significant role to play in the global fuels transition, and Sydney Airport commends the Federal Government’s decision to establish a Jet Zero Council and looks forward to ongoing participation in the council.

    Regenerating and protecting the precious ecosystem surrounding Sydney Airport is also a key priority and $200,000 has been funded by the airport for the Bayside Council’s work landscaping in Sir Joseph Banks Park in Botany, increasing the tree canopy and providing new habitat for wildlife.

    Sydney Airport on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2030

    • Significant progress has been made in achieving net-zero emissions by 2030. This comprises both ‘Scope 1’ emissions generated by the Airport’s vehicle fleet and natural gas use and ‘Scope 2’ emissions generated to supply electricity to the Airport
    • On track to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 50% from ground operations by 2025
    • Sydney Airport on track to have 100% renewable electricity by 2025, with procurement already underway

    “Our passengers often tell us they are blown away by the beauty of Botany Bay as they fly into Sydney Airport,” co-head (safety, sustainability and environment), Sydney Airport, Jake Atkins, said. 

    “The Botany Wetlands, including the Sydney Airport Wetlands, are considered one of the last remaining green corridors in a highly disturbed area of Sydney. Being surrounded by such precious wetlands is an immense privilege, and we take the responsibility of caring for them very seriously.”

    Sydney Airport volunteers including Jake Atkins planting trees in nearby wetlands. (Supplied)

    “As the aviation energy transition gains pace, Sydney Airport will continue to play a role in aviation’s decarbonization journey and is focused on delivering the infrastructure and management measures needed to decarbonize.

    “Several energy efficiency projects have recently been completed, including the installation of more efficient LED lights in our car parks and terminals, with another 3,500 LED lights to be installed later in the year.

    “This year, we will continue to work with airlines and ground handlers to increase the use of ground power and pre-conditioned air, reduce jet fuel burn while on the gates, and progress electrification of ground service equipment fleets.

    “We will also continue to consult with the Australian Government and the community on the review of the Demand Management Scheme at Sydney Airport. There are still important improvements that can be made to enhance the efficiency of airport operations while also having beneficial carbon emissions outcomes.”

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