Airports must be living ecosystems that promote sustainability!

As global aviation confronts the reality of climate change, airports, despite their status as symbols of progress and connection, must now lead the charge towards sustainability. Ar. Gurpreet Shah and Prof. Charanjit Shah of Creative Group LLP elucidate the design strategies for green and net-zero airports.

How do your designs facilitate green certifications for airports?
Our architectural approach is aligned with certification frameworks like LEED, IGBC, and BREEAM through integrated design processes, where collaborative planning ensures that sustainability is integrated from the beginning; energy performance optimisation, where terminal layouts are designed to maximise daylight while minimising heat gain (essential elements include high-performance façades, LED lighting, smart HVAC controls, and Building Management Systems (BMS)); ascertaining water efficiency, where rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and water-efficient fixtures are key components; sustainable materials, by prioritising locally sourced, recycled, low-VOC products and ethical construction waste management; and indoor environmental quality (IEQ), incorporating biophilic design, natural light, acoustic comfort, and superior air quality.

Design components like sustainable zoning, energy-efficient technology, and plenty of greenery were instrumental in Chennai International Airport earning LEED Silver Certification and numerous national honours.

What do you think are the key components of sustainable airport design?
Sustainability in aviation infrastructure must go beyond surface-level fixes. Our design philosophy is rooted in climate-responsive architecture, incorporating passive cooling, natural ventilation, and solar orientation to help reduce operational loads; energy & water management, through rooftop solar, BIPV, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures; waste hierarchy, by prioritising reduction, reuse, and recycling from construction to operation; ecological enhancement, through site planning, landscaping, incorporating native species, and biodiversity conservation; and resilient design.

How can architects be mindful of executing circular economy principles while designing airports?Circular economy thinking focuses on building airports that are adaptable to future demands, using materials that encourage recycling and reuse, and specifying structures for easy disassembly and material recovery. Modular building approaches reduce waste and allow components to be reused, whereas waste valorisation systems convert byproducts into useful resources. At Creative Group LLP, these principles guide every step of our design process, from structural systems to interior finishes.

What are some of the innovative technologies that support sustainable construction in airports?
Our strategies include smart building technologies, BIM, modern materials, and on-site water treatment. For example, at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, we merged modern technologies with vernacular aesthetics to create a low-impact, high-performance terminal.

Can you share some best practices to address challenges related to renewable energy integration in Indian airports?
Optimised roof design and integrated solar surfaces like BIPV enable efficient power generation. Passive design reduces energy demand, while battery storage ensures reliability. Microgrid-ready systems and land-efficient solutions like solar carports further support sustainable, scalable energy use in airports.

For more information, visit: http://creativegroup.co.in/