Working 20 years ahead of the government’s target, the gateway hopes to be the first in the UK to be net zero
Bristol Airport has announced its plans to become the first net zero hub in the UK by 2030.
The new initiative was outlined at an event on Friday (June 25) and was attended by business, aviation and aerospace industry leaders, discussing how strategic collaborations will help support the sector’s goal of carbon neutrality.
“Today is another milestone in looking towards the future showcasing how businesses in the region collaborating together using the latest technology and innovative solutions will meet decarbonisation targets,” said Dave Lees, CEO at Bristol Airport. “The aviation industry is taking its responsibilities seriously in addressing climate change challenges, working together to create the solutions now and in the future.”
Marvin Rees, Bristol mayor, added: “I welcome Bristol Airport’s ambition to drive carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability into the heart of its future, and to show leadership on how the sector can green its impact and deliver on testing carbon goals.
“In an increasingly interconnected world we must harness technology and innovation to reach our goal of carbon neutrality. Bristol’s aerospace sector is well placed to continue to lead on solutions to this challenge.”
The airport’s CO2 neutral ambition is expected to be achieved by the end of this year, fours year ahead of its original schedule. It also plans to be the first net zero hub in the UK by 2030 – 20 years ahead of the government’s target date.
Bristol announced its three commitments at the event, which consists of wanting to be a net zero airfield with environmental buildings and operate a fleet of vehicles using SAF.
Additionally, a consortium led by design, engineering and project management consultancy, Atkins, is investigating the feasibility of air taxi services in the South West using electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
This project aims to support the complex infrastructure and demonstrate the benefits of sustainable transportation.
“De-carbonising aviation is an enormous challenge that requires multi-disciplinary global action from across the entire ecosystem, working together towards common goals and with robust policies in place,” said James Richmond, advanced air mobility lead at Atkins. “Embracing technological innovation will be key and as the industry develop solutions, working early with ambitious partners to test and validate these will be fundamental to their implementation and success.”
The event hosted by the airport is part of a series which hopes to promote the region’s role in committing to green aviation growth.
