PA Environment Digest

In recognition of its many Green initiatives and strong commitment to preserving its natural and physical surroundings, Philadelphia International Airport was named recipient of The Green Vision Award presented by the PENJERDEL Council at the Council's 56th Annual Awards Luncheon last week.

PENJERDEL cited the Airport's Environmental Policy Statement, adopted in 2006, that has led to numerous Green initiatives and its steadfast commitment to meeting the goals and objectives outlined in the City's Greenworks Philadelphia Plan.

"I want to thank the PENJERDEL Council for recognizing us with this prestigious award and acknowledging our dedication, hard work and commitment in the area of environmental stewardship," said Airport CEO Mark Gale. "We understand the importance of minimizing our environmental footprint and we continue to work to seek out new and innovative ways to reduce waste and emissions and be caretakers of our natural and physical surroundings."

Among the Airport's many environmental initiatives are purchasing renewable energy through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Partnership; partnering with US Airways and United Airlines to purchase and install electric ground support equipment and recharging units to reduce emissions and save on fuel and maintenance costs; working with airlines and other tenants to integrate waste streams into a centralized recycling program; using energy efficient hybrid vehicles; and installing bioswales and using pervious pavement materials to reduce storm water runoff.

In addition, the Airport is volunteering to serve as one of only 5 "test case" airports for the Transportation Research Board's Airport Cooperative Research Program Project to explore alternative fuels as a means to reduce PM 2.5 emissions at airports.

The new Terminal F Baggage Claim Building, which will soon be under construction, anticipates achieving the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification under the LEED for New Construction version 2.2 rating system.

In accepting The Green Vision Award, Gale also touched on the Airport's Capacity Enhancement Program and its importance to the future of the region. "We are planning the Airport of the future, for our future," Gale said.

Earlier this year, the Airport received the Pennsylvania Environmental Council Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence for a Ground Service Equipment electrification project designed to reduce harmful greenhouse gases and other pollutants.

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