Airports face growing pressure to address sustainability challenges, driven by burgeoning environmental regulation, public scrutiny and health-related concerns. A key pillar of airport sustainability – as defined both by international policy and local strategies – is the reduction of both CO₂ emissions and harmful substances such as nitrogen oxide (NOx) and ultrafine particles (UFPs). These all result from aircraft engines and diesel-powered ground service equipment (GSE). Reducing CO₂ directly supports global climate goals, as outlined in the Paris Agreement and lowering other emissions is crucial for improving air quality and protecting the health of airport workers and local communities. Multiple studies have shown that exposure to air pollution near airports can increase health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
