Our Vision 2050: Quality of Life

In 2019, we unveiled an ambitious sustainability ‘roadmap’ that sets out the path to becoming a zero-emissions and zero-waste airport by 2030 and making a positive contribution by 2050.

The power of positive, circular thinking

We intend to be a fully circular organisation by 2050, meaning that everything we consume will be successfully put back into use. Our aim before then is to be waste-free by 2030. To reach our goals, we are steadily introducing circular design principles, including for renovations and new constructions, phasing out single-use products, and upcycling and separating materials.

Our ultimate aim is to become ‘energy positive’ by producing more energy than we consume. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is also a key focus. We want to stop using fossil fuels for the good of the planet, and to improve air quality in and around our airports. Step one will be to make our airports ground operations emissions-free by 2030, with the help of solar and wind power. From buses to ground-handling equipment, we are electrifying vehicles and equipment on both landside and airside, by replacing equipment and vehicles that use fossil fuels with modern, cleaner technology.

Meeting the sustainability targets along our roadmap will involve collaborating with our customers, suppliers and aviation sector stakeholders every step of the way. By working side by side with our partners, we hope to improve quality of life for generations to come.

While reducing carbon emissions remains a priority, Schiphol has also stepped up efforts to reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides, contributing to the recommendation from the Remkes Committee led by the Dutch government. The resulting action plan identified three strategies for reducing nitrogen emissions.

Three focus areas

The road to zero emissions begins with electrifying all airside traffic at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Schiphol is working on this by increasing the number of electric ground power units (E-GPUs), installing fixed electrical ground power at all gates, and introducing new electric vehicles and charge facilities. Longer-term measures include working on sustainably taxiing aircraft to and from the runways, and on adding pushback tugs powered by electricity or hydrogen.

Encouraging the use of public transport is another priority, which is why we are upgrading Schiphol’s train and bus station alongside our partners, as well as advocating for the extension of the North-South metro line to the airport.

Meanwhile, a bigger challenge involves working with the wider aviation sector to limit nitrogen emissions from air traffic. Among its other contributions, Schiphol is improving flight procedures so that approaching aircraft use less engine power and therefore reduce emissions.

Bit by bit, this combination of approaches will help improve air quality at Schiphol and across the Netherlands and beyond, contributing to a healthier and more pleasant living environment for all.