Birmingham Airport Launches Comprehensive Sustainability Strategy for 2026-2030
Birmingham Airport has officially published its new sustainability strategy covering the period from 2026 to 2030, detailing the next strategic steps in its journey toward becoming more sustainable and socially responsible. The plan outlines key actions designed to support local communities, mitigate the operational impact on the environment, and improve energy efficiency across airport operations.
Building on Progress Toward Net Zero by 2033
The strategy builds on significant progress already achieved toward the airport's goal of becoming a net zero airport by 2033. Since 2019, Birmingham Airport has successfully reduced its direct emissions by an impressive 30 per cent. This reduction forms a strong foundation for the new initiatives outlined in the strategy.
In addition to ongoing efforts to manage noise levels, reduce waste, and implement water-saving strategies, the airport has now committed to widening its focus to target indirect emissions. This will involve engaging and collaborating with key partners to ensure a comprehensive approach to sustainability.
New Sustainable Procurement and Community Engagement Initiatives
To ensure that third-party organisations align with BHX's strategic themes, suppliers and contractors working at the airport will be subject to due diligence checks and contract management processes as part of a new sustainable procurement policy. This move aims to embed sustainability throughout the supply chain.
In a further bid to promote sustainability within the wider airport community, specialised engagement and training programmes will be delivered. These programmes are designed to recognise and promote sustainable business practices among all stakeholders.
Enhancing Local Community Quality of Life
Another key theme within the strategy is the enhancement of the quality of life for local communities. This will be supported through continued support of a local corporate charity partner, the development of new skills-based work experience programmes, and volunteering opportunities for airport colleagues.
The airport's Community Trust Fund, which has awarded over £2 million in monetary grants to impactful causes since its inception, will also be fully digitalised. This initiative aims to improve accessibility and encourage more applications from community groups.
Commitment to Biodiversity and Environmental Protection
Biodiversity is a central strategic theme within the plan, with BHX committing to become 'biodiversity nature-positive.' This involves the responsible management of the airport's wider land, which includes a designated Local Wildlife Site. Actions will include the continued protection of wildlife species and the consideration of biodiversity in all new developments.
Leadership Perspective on the Strategy Launch
Simon Richards, Chief Finance and Sustainability Officer at Birmingham Airport, commented on the launch of the new Sustainability Strategy. He said, "We're delighted to launch our new Sustainability Strategy for 2026 to 2030 as part of our ongoing commitment to reducing our impact on our environment and being a good neighbour to our local communities."
Richards added, "As we move closer to 2033, this new strategy is critical to ensuring that we remain on track to achieve our net zero pledge, whilst continuing to grow sustainably and responsibly. We look forward to now putting this strategy into action and sharing the positive outcomes it delivers."
The updated strategy comes at a pivotal time, as the airport is also looking at its next Masterplan. This Masterplan will involve public consultation on responsible growth up until 2041, further integrating sustainability into long-term planning.
