Birmingham Airport (BHX) has published its sustainability strategy for 2026 to 2030, which outlines the next strategic steps it intends to take on its journey to becoming a more sustainable and ‘socially responsible’ business.
The steps, which are split across ten key strategic themes, are aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and set out a number of key actions that aim to support local communities, mitigate operational impact on the environment and be more energy efficient.
Overall, the strategy plans to build on progress already achieved towards becoming a net zero airport by 2033, which has thus far resulted in a 30% reduction of direct emissions since 2019. The airport has also now committed to widening its focus to target indirect emissions by both engaging and collaborating with key partners, alongside the continued management of noise levels, reduction in waste and water saving strategies.
All 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, ensuring all third-party organisations are aligned with BHX’s strategic themes. Specialised engagement and training programmes will be delivered that aim to both recognise and promote sustainable business practices.
The strategy focuses on the enhancement of quality of life of local communities, which will be supported through the support of a local corporate charity partner, development of new skills-based work experience programmes and volunteering opportunities for colleagues. The airport’s Community Trust Fund will undergo a full digitalisation in order to both improve accessibility and promote applications.
Finally, biodiversity will play a key role within the plan, with BHX committing to a ‘biodiversity nature-positive’ outlook. Much of the airport’s wilder land will continue to include a designated Local Wildlife Site, and new steps will incorporate the continued protection of wildlife species and the consideration of biodiversity in new developments.
Simon Richards, Chief Finance and Sustainability Officer, 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.
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 full Sustainability Strategy 2026 – 2030 is available to view on the Birmingham Airport website, here.
