Newcastle Airport’s 2024 ESG Report: Soaring Boldly Toward a Net Zero Future
Newcastle Airport’s 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report highlights significant progress toward its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2035. Between 2023 and 2024, the airport reduced carbon emissions by 4%, contributing to a total reduction of 34% since 2019. Key initiatives driving this progress include a solar farm that provides 100% of the terminal’s electricity on sunny days, cutting 478 tonnes of CO2 annually, and the adoption of electric vehicles and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which have reduced emissions from airport vehicles by up to 90%. The airport also increased its recycling rate to 40%, marking steady improvement in waste management.
Newcastle Airport received Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 4, the highest recognition for carbon management, and achieved a perfect 100% score in the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB), making it one of only two UK airports to do so. The creation of a ‘Sustainability Champions’ group has further accelerated efforts, leading to a remarkable 288% increase in food waste recycling.
Beyond environmental achievements, the airport strengthened community ties by raising funds for True Colours Theatre, supporting young people through the arts, and assisting nearly 90,000 passengers needing extra help. Investments in next-generation security technology also enhanced the customer experience ahead of regulatory deadlines.
Leadership from Newcastle Airport and local authorities emphasized the importance of these efforts in supporting the region’s low-carbon ambitions and community well-being. Overall, the 2024 ESG report demonstrates Newcastle Airport’s clear, strategic commitment to sustainable growth, positioning it as a model for the aviation industry’s transition to a greener future.
