You may not realize it, but Philadelphia International Airport is committed to something called Environmental Stewardship, which they define as “the careful and responsible management of natural and cultural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.”
Here are some of the steps they have taken to become greener:
Water Quality
Because PHL is near the confluence of the Schuylkill River and Delaware River and is next to the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, they’ve created a Water Quality and Wetlands project. The project improves the water quality, reduces storm water runoff, and protects the wetlands so that both animals and humans can enjoy cleaner water.
Air Quality
Air pollution can damage the ozone layer and affect the health of humans, lakes, trees, animals, crops, and more. To reduce air pollution, PHL has incorporated recharging stations for their Ground Support Equipment. The stations reduce emissions like nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. They’ve also made ground transportation improvements to reduce traffic, which reduces fossil fuel use and emissions.
Noise
Because airplanes make a lot of noise, PHL developed the Noise Compatibility Program, which minimizes noise impact on neighboring communities. Their Noise Exposure Maps show current aircraft noise exposure and a future forecast of noise based on flight paths, types of aircraft, and number of carriers.
Electricity
The airport is working on installing solar panels along the ground and on the rooftops of Terminal A and the PHL Airport parking deck to reduce the amount of electricity the airport uses. The panels will not only reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, but will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Recycling
With the Waste Reduction Program, PHL keeps tons of waste from entering a landfill by recycling it. The airport has worked to provide more recycling receptacles throughout the SEPTA transit lines and participates in a facility-wide composting program.