Sustainable airport design goes beyond just the building!

Sustainability in airport architecture is not just about the design. HOK’s Matt Needham elucidates why it is important to adopt a comprehensive approach. In this conversation, Matt discusses the best practices for sustainable airport designs, the significance of adopting circular economy principles, and how thoughtful designs can catalyse green certifications.

How do airport designs facilitate green certifications for airports?
Green certifications for airports start with thoughtful design choices, which begin with site selection and building orientation, directly impacting heat gain and energy efficiency.

The new Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) we designed is a perfect example. Here, we reduced the new hub airport’s embodied carbon by using fly ash in the concrete foundation—a simple yet effective step. Building envelope is another critical factor. High-performance glazing and insulation help keep the airport comfortable year-round, reducing energy consumption.

Energy-efficient systems also play a major role. For example, automated lighting systems adjust lights based on natural light levels, and stop/start motors on baggage handling systems conserve energy when bags are not on the belts for a period of time. These features can be replicated for any airport and work together to reduce the energy load and create a more sustainable airport that earns green certifications.

What best practices do you follow to ensure sustainable airport design?
Sustainable airport design goes beyond just the building—it is about the materials used inside the spaces! By choosing locally sourced materials, we not only support the local economy but also cut down on transportation emissions. At Monterey Regional Airport’s new terminal, currently being designed by HOK, we are putting this into practice, using locally sourced materials that minimise environmental impact without compromising on quality. The new five-gate terminal, beginning this year, targets LEED Platinum certification and net-zero energy readiness.                                                                   

Overall, sustainability is about making smart choices that benefit both the project and the planet.

Why should architects be mindful of executing circular economy principles while designing airports?
Applying circular economy principles in airport design means thinking long-term. We design with a 30-50-year lifespan, considering that the building is adaptable and efficient over time. While sustainable construction may initially cost 5-7 percent more, the long-term savings on operating costs far outweigh the investment. Architects should think about creating airports that don’t just perform well today but remain efficient for decades.

What are some of the innovative technologies that support sustainable construction in airports?
Innovation in sustainable airport construction often means rethinking materials. For instance, we have reused concrete as base rock for airfield pavement—essentially recycling on an industrial scale. This approach minimises waste and reduces the need for new materials, making construction cleaner and more efficient. It is a practical way to support sustainability without overcomplicating the process.

How can renewable energy integration in Indian airports overcome intermittent availability challenges?
Integrating renewable energy at Indian airports is all about balance and storage. Combining solar and wind power with battery backup ensures a consistent energy supply even when there is no sunlight or low wind speed. During peak times or outages, the stored energy in batteries keeps the airport running smoothly. It is an intelligent, practical way to harness renewable energy without sacrificing reliability.

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