Newcastle Airport cuts emissions by 34 per cent since 2019

The airport, which aims to achieve net zero carbon status by 2035, has published its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report.

According to the report, the airport reduced its carbon emissions by 4 per cent between 2023 and 2024.

The airport also achieved a 40 per cent recycling rate, marking a 5 per cent increase from 2023.

The airport's solar farm prevented 478 tonnes of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere, equivalent to the electricity needed to power 897 homes.

More than 30 per cent of the airport's vehicles are now fully electric, and the introduction of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to power non-electric operational vehicles has cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90 per cent.

Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at Newcastle Airport, said: "Our ESG report showcases the fantastic progress we have made across the business to move us closer to our net zero goal.

"From reducing our carbon emissions by 4 per cent year on year, to increasing our recycling rate to 40 per cent, we are incredibly proud of everything we achieved last year.

"We recognise there is still more work to do but these results show that we are moving in the right direction to deliver a meaningful, lasting change that not only ensures that we have a sustainable future but also aligns with the cleaner, greener and fairer Net Zero North East ambition of the North East Combined Authority.”

Councillor Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council and chair of the LA7 Airport shareholders, said: "Newcastle Airport continues to lead by example in the journey towards a greener future.

"These latest achievements reflect the airport’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and align with our collective ambitions to be a low carbon region."

Graeme Ferguson, head of airports at InfraBridge, said: "The progress Newcastle Airport is making toward its net zero carbon goal reflects a clear and consistent approach to sustainability.

"The reductions in emissions, increased use of renewable energy, and improved recycling efforts are important steps."

The full ESG report can be viewed online at newcastleairport.com/about-your-airport/environment/esg-strategy.