Integrating green goals into airport design and development

Aviation experts Rahul Khanna and Divya Verma examine how sustainable design, circular principles, and innovation influence future-ready, green airports.

How have material innovation and technological advancements fostered sustainable construction in airports?
Material innovations accelerating sustainable airport construction include eco-friendly materials like recycled steel and bio-composites. Renewable systems—solar, wind, and biomass—cut fossil fuel use, as seen at Changi and Oslo Airports. Smart technologies, including IoT and AI, enhance resource use, maintenance, and security. Energy-efficient lighting, HVAC, and passive design reduce energy needs. Water can be conserved through rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and smart irrigation, and waste can be minimised with real-time tracking and digital ticketing, reducing landfill and paper use.

What key design factors drive green certifications for airports?
Airport designs support green certifications through targeted strategies. Energy efficiency is achieved using LED lighting, advanced HVAC systems, and renewable sources like solar panels. Water management involves using low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater reuse, with early planning based on site hydrology. Locally sourced, recycled materials and low-VOC finishes reduce environmental impact and improve air quality. Waste can be minimised through recycling, composting, and smart construction practices. Green spaces like roofs and living walls boost biodiversity and insulation. Pursuing certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or the Living Building Challenge provides frameworks for sustainable design and operations. These strategies help airports achieve green certifications, contributing to long-term operational efficiency.

What are the key components of sustainable airport design?
Architects should focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, use of sustainable materials, water conservation, waste management, and Green Building Certifications. Key strategies include integrating energy-efficient systems like LED lighting and smart HVAC and maximising natural daylighting; for example, Cochin Airport generates surplus solar power. Utilising renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems reduces the reliance on fossil fuels. Sustainable, locally sourced materials minimise emissions while water-saving measures such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting lower costs. Strong waste reduction programs and green certifications like LEED ensure long-term sustainability. Technologies like BIM and digital twin increase efficiency.

How can architects be mindful of executing circular economic principles while designing airports?
Airport design professionals, including architects and engineers, must design for longevity and flexibility. Modular terminals allow future expansion, while rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures cut water use. Sustainable, locally sourced materials and prefabrication reduce waste. Lifecycle assessments guide material choices and waste movement. Energy-efficient planning with renewables supports India’s shift to clean energy.

How can airport architects address renewable energy integration challenges while working towards green airport design? 
Architects can ensure efficient renewable energy integration by adopting hybrid energy systems, smart grid integration, and energy storage solutions; efficient design and layout, collaborations, and partnerships are also important. Optimising the design and layout of solar panels and wind turbines can maximise energy capture; e.g., using rooftops. Architects should leverage government incentives and policies supporting renewable energy projects. These can help offset initial costs and provide financial support for infrastructure development. Similarly, it is important to partner with renewable energy experts to design, implement, and maintain renewable energy systems.