Shannon Airport achieves new accreditation for reducing carbon emissions

SHANNON Airport has reduced its carbon emissions by more than 40% and has now achieved level 3 airport carbon accreditation.

Since 2018, the Shannon Airport Group introduced LED lighting upgrades, the electrification of airport vehicles and collaborating with airport partners and investing in renewable energy. 

READ ALSO: HSE acknowledges 'catastrophic and irreparable harm' in death of Limerick teenager in UHL

This has all resulted in a 43% reduction in carbon emissions since 2018. 

In November last, they also launched the country’s first on airfield solar PV farm. 

A spokesperson explained: “The 5.5-acre, 1.2-megawatt installation is expected to supply up to 20% of the airport’s annual electricity needs and plays a pivotal role in its long-term decarbonisation strategy.”

With a €30 million investment plan between now and 2030, the airport will improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions through operational footprint consolidation, upgraded building insulation, and the adoption of advanced heating and cooling systems including heat pump technology. 

The airport’s new operations centre and two meeting rooms now also use 92% remanufactured furniture, recycled paint and second life carpet tiles. 

A spokesperson said: “By extending the life of more than 70 items through high-quality remanufacturing, the project prevented 4.4 tonnes of carbon emissions, representing an 80% reduction in embodied carbon of the furniture fitout, while delivering a modern, comfortable workspace. All items can be remanufactured again in future, further preventing unnecessary waste.”

Head of sustainability at The Shannon Airport Group, Sinead Murphy said: “We are delighted to have achieved Level 3 airport carbon accreditation. It reflects the hard work of my colleagues in the sustainability team, as well as the dedication of everyone here at The Shannon Airport Group, and our partners, which underpins our sustainability strategy. 

“From electrifying our operations to generating renewable energy onsite, we are making real, measurable progress toward our long-term climate goals. This accreditation is evidence of the momentum building right across the organisation as we all work to create a more efficient and sustainable airport for the future.”