Christchurch International Airport (CIAL) has had its carbon
neutral status recertified by Landcare Research until 2013.
Certification requirements include a commitment to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.
"Our fourth recertification shows we're maintaining our position
as a leader in this field for airport companies," said CIAL Chief
Executive Jim Boult. "We make consistent efforts to achieve best
practice environmental management at the airport, including
environmental and energy audits, and initiatives in range of areas
such as storm water discharge, solid waste disposal, energy
conservation, and water and air quality."
Jim Boult said he was particularly proud that over the last year
the company had implemented a Building Management System energy
conservation programme, which resulted in a 7% reduction in energy
consumption from the operation of the terminal. In addition, CIAL
nearly doubled the amount of waste that was recycled and not sent
to landfill, and increased its use of recycled asphalt pavement in
the annual Runway Maintenance Programme from the previous year.
Plans for the coming year were implementing a scheme for
electric heat pumps using groundwater as an alternative to diesel
boilers; using groundwater for the airconditioning needs of the new
terminal and then returning the water to its source; and assessing
options for development of "green precincts" within new property
developments of CIAL land.
"We are serious about building our environmental sustainability
and protecting the natural resources on our land," said Jim Boult.
"Our vision is for Christchurch Airport to be the best airport in
New Zealand, and taking responsibility for our greenhouse gas
emissions is an integral part of that vision."
