In an era where the aviation industry is increasingly scrutinised for its environmental impact, significant efforts are being made to reduce its carbon footprint. Airports, responsible for about 3% of global aviation carbon emissions, play a crucial role in this endeavour. The Royal Schiphol Group stands at the forefront of this movement, having set ambitious targets to achieve zero carbon emissions and waste by 2030, and to become energy positive by 2050. This vision requires a comprehensive approach, weaving together incremental changes, innovative engineering, and collaborative efforts.
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The path to sustainability is not paved with a singular, monumental project; rather, it is constructed through a series of incremental changes that collectively contribute to a broader vision. Schiphol Airport exemplifies this philosophy with its longstanding partnership with engineering firm Deerns, spanning over six decades. Each project, regardless of its scale, is an opportunity to further align with the airport’s sustainability objectives. A prime example of this is the redesign of an aircraft stand using steel instead of the conventional concrete. This modification not only reduces reliance on carbon-intensive materials but also aligns with Schiphol’s circular economy goals by enhancing the potential for material reuse in future projects. These seemingly modest innovations are vital to the overarching journey towards sustainability.
Central to transforming sustainability visions into tangible engineering solutions is the cultivation of a culture of innovation. The question, “what if?” is instrumental in pushing the boundaries of conventional methodologies. Deerns’ project approach involves integrating sustainability into every facet of the design process by considering the larger picture. By leveraging parametric design technology, engineers can investigate various design scenarios, leading to groundbreaking solutions that bolster sustainability. A notable instance is tackling the cooling requirements of airport facilities. Instead of investing in expensive cooling systems, engineers proposed a solution whereby heat is allowed to dissipate through the building façade, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.
Sustainable engineering is inherently collaborative, necessitating the involvement of a diverse array of stakeholders. At Schiphol, this ethos of collaboration extends beyond the traditional client-consultant dynamic to include internal teams and external partners. Such a collaborative approach ensures that projects are enriched by the latest innovations and research from different engineering disciplines. Moreover, understanding the needs of all stakeholders, such as the retail outlets within the airport, provides a comprehensive perspective on energy requirements and potential efficiencies. This holistic viewpoint is essential for identifying and capitalising on opportunities for sustainability improvements.
Designing with an eye towards future resilience is paramount for projects with long-term sustainability implications. This involves considering how materials can be reused or repurposed and exploring modular construction techniques. Furthermore, Schiphol’s sustainability efforts reach beyond the immediate project site, contemplating how the airport’s sustainable practices can extend benefits to the surrounding community. For instance, investigating the utilisation of excess heat generated by the airport to aid local areas is a core component of their sustainability strategy.
The evolution of a sustainability vision into engineering reality is a complex yet fulfilling endeavour. By embracing incremental changes, fostering an innovative mindset, promoting collaboration, and considering long-term impacts, airports like Schiphol are setting the stage for a more sustainable future. As global environmental challenges persist, these initiatives provide a blueprint for other industries, underscoring that sustainable engineering is not merely an end goal, but an ongoing journey of exploration and enhancement.
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