Schiphol's leading role in transition to sustainable aviation
As one of the largest airports in the world, Schiphol has played a central role in the transition to a more sustainable aviation industry. Working closely with the Dutch aviation industry, Schiphol has set ambitious targets to reduce CO2 emissions from Dutch aviation to 2005 levels by 2030, with the ultimate vision of being completely CO2 neutral by 2050.
Sustainable aviation in the sky
Renewable fuels play a crucial role in the push for greener aviation in the short term. While long-term innovations such as electric or hybrid aircraft are being developed worldwide, Schiphol has already invested in bio kerosene as a readily available solution. By 2030, Schiphol aims for 14% of the fuel at Dutch airports to be renewable, including the development of synthetic kerosene as a promising alternative.
Schiphol also encourages the adoption of quieter and cleaner aircraft by applying fare differentiation, with airlines using such aircraft paying significantly lower fares than those using noisy and polluting aircraft.
In addition to these efforts, there is intensive cooperation among Dutch airports to promote the development of electric aircraft and hydrogen-fueled flying, although commercial flights on these fuels are currently still in the development stage.
Sustainable aviation at the airport
The focus on sustainability and sustainable aviation extends to airport ground operations. Schiphol has committed to the electrification of vehicles such as baggage tractors and scissor elevators, while renewable fuels such as HVO100 are used for other ground equipment, resulting in significant reductions in CO2 emissions.
Aircraft on the ground use shore power and pre-conditioned air units as an alternative to kerosene-powered auxiliary engines, enabling further reductions in emissions. Moreover, since 2018, all Royal Schiphol Group airports have been running on 100% of Dutch wind power, with an increasing deployment of solar power expected to generate 21 MWh by 2030, covering about 10% of Schiphol's energy needs.
Sustainable aviation to and from the air
Schiphol offers several sustainable transportation options to reach the airport, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of transportation. Since March 2018, more than 200 Connexxion electric buses have been operating in and around the airport, significantly reducing CO2 emissions and air pollution.
Moreover, all passenger cars departing from the official duty station at Schiphol are electric, with a growing number of electric car charging stations powered by renewable energy sources. Schiphol also has a dedicated parking lot for shared cars, making it easy for conscious drivers to share their vehicles.
Rail travel is encouraged by direct train connections to many cities in the Netherlands and the Amsterdam Travel Ticket, which allows travelers unlimited use of public transportation for 1, 2 or 3 days, including shuttle service to and from Schiphol. In addition, Schiphol is easily accessible by bicycle, with bike lanes leading directly to the terminal and a free bicycle parking area where travelers can park their bikes for up to four weeks. The availability of public transport bicycles by NS at Schiphol provides another sustainable option for travelers.
Through these various measures and investments, Schiphol is committed to a future of sustainable aviation, where the pursuit of environmental friendliness goes hand in hand with its role as one of the world's leading aviation hubs.
Sustainable business travel
Are you planning a business trip and value sustainability? You've come to the right place for sustainable business travel. Our travel consultants are here to help you find green options for your business commitments as well as your leisure time while traveling. Please contact us and make your trip a sustainable experience.
Travel Well!
Larissa Vosmer
Business Travel Consultant
Source: Schiphol
