Gatwick Airport aims to reach net zero 20 years early

Sustainability In The Air

In this episode, we talk to Mark Edwards, Head of Sustainability at London Gatwick. As one of the busiest airports in Europe, Gatwick has set an ambitious target to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, 20 years ahead of the UK’s national target.

Edwards discusses Gatwick’s multi-faceted approach to sustainability, which includes addressing Scope 1 and 2 emissions through the use of renewable electricity, transitioning away from fossil fuels through the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and gradually converting their vehicle fleet to electric. He also touches upon the challenges of reducing Scope 3 emissions, which primarily come from airline operations and are outside the airport’s direct control.

Edwards elaborates on Gatwick’s role in supporting sustainable aviation initiatives. He highlights the airport’s efforts to increase the supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the region, engage passengers about carbon offsetting and SAF, advocate for government support, and potentially incentivise airlines to use more SAF.

In addition, Edwards also shares Gatwick’s preparations to support the future use of hydrogen and electric-powered aircraft, emphasising the importance of collaboration with airlines and manufacturers to ensure the airport is “jet zero ready.”

Please note: This interview was recorded in January 2024. Since then London Gatwick Airport has swapped diesel for HVO. Moreover, the public hearing for the Northern Runway Project began in February 2024.

If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Robb Etnyre, General Manager of Truckee Tahoe Airport, who shares how the airport has become the first in the world to fully transition to SAF. Check it out here.

Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.

Feel free to reach out via email to [e-mail]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.

Links & More:

London Gatwick Airport

Sustainability - London Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick switches 300 diesel vehicles to hydrotreated vegetable oil - Passenger Terminal Today

Gatwick’s Plans For Second Runway Take Shape - Aviation Week Network

How Truckee Tahoe Airport is transitioning towards its 100% SAF goal - SimpliFlying