What Are Airports Doing About Climate Change?

                                       SFO experts describe steps they are taking

All airlines that fly out of SFO are powered by sustainable fuel.
All airlines that fly out of SFO are powered by sustainable fuel. (Courtesy of SFO)

What are airports doing about climate change? Two experts will discuss San Francisco International Airport’s sustainability efforts at a program on Thursday, October 10, from 7 to 8 p.m. on Zoom. Called “Fly the Sustainable Skies of SFO,” the program is hosted by the Citizens Environmental Council and is cosponsored by 350 Silicon Valley, Acterra, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Peninsula Clean Energy and Sustainable San Mateo County.

The program is free, but pre-registration is required.

Erin Cooke, SFO’s Sustainability and Resilience Director, and Courtney Carroux, the airport’s Net Zero Lead, will describe steps SFO is taking to reach its net zero carbon goal by 2030, as well as how the airport is working with stakeholders to help them reach their decarbonization goals. They’ll also explain how passengers can travel more sustainably and find the most sustainable flights.

To cut down on carbon emissions, SFO is working to convert all of its buildings and ground vehicles from fossil fuel to electric power. All 54 airlines that fly out of SFO are powered by fuel that contains Sustainable Aviation Fuel made from plant and animal materials, which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80%. The airport banned all plastic water bottles and foodware in 2019 and is looking at reusables for onsite dining next.
The Citizens Environmental Council’s mission is to champion regional sustainability through education, advocate for environmental and climate policies, and empower young environmental leaders. For more information, visit cecburlingame.org or email info@cecburlingame.org.