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Growing a low carbon Gatwick
Last week the Government opened a debate on the long-term future of UK aviation.
This is a significant debate as the aviation industry makes a major contribution to the UK economy, generating over £12 billion each year and keeping over 500,000 people in jobs.
Gatwick – like others across the industry – will be sharing our detailed views on the initial scoping document by September 2011.
At first glance, it’s clear that reducing carbon emissions will need to be a priority for the entire industry if we’re to grow and develop.
We currently have no plans for a second runway at Gatwick, but we do want to make the best use of our single runway and two terminals, while reducing carbon emissions and managing noise and air quality impacts.
Growing our passenger numbers means increasing the number of aircraft movements at peak periods, utilising off-peak capacity and encouraging the use of modern, more efficient aircraft – fitting more people on greener planes.
Our Decade of Change sustainability strategy was recently short listed for the final of the CBI’s Green Strategy Awards. This sets out our commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2020.
I think we’ve already made some good progress. At the end of February, we were awarded Level 2 status of the ACI carbon accreditation scheme. We’re now working towards securing Level 3 by the end of 2011.
It’s positive to see the government linking aviation policy with its wider objectives around sustainable economic growth and tackling climate change.
I think a balance between national carbon targets and local environment impacts will encourage everyone who benefits from the aviation industry to take responsibility. For Gatwick, we’ll have a role to play with our airlines, partners and business around the airport to help lead the way.
Hear from Stewart and the team
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