SLO County Airport launches new sustainability plan
SLO County Regional Airport.
Goal is to develop a long-term plan to reduce carbon emissions, as well as energy and water use, without compromising service quality
– San Luis Obispo County Airport has launched several sustainability initiatives intended to reduce environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience.
The initiatives include a partnership with global consulting firm AECOM to conduct a comprehensive study of airport operations. The goal is to develop a long-term plan to reduce carbon emissions, as well as energy and water use, without compromising service quality.
The airport is working with renewable energy developer ForeFront Power to install solar carport canopies over Parking Lot 4. The project is expected to offset the airport’s entire energy use with renewable power and stabilize energy costs over the next two decades.
Publicly accessible electric vehicle charging stations are scheduled to be installed this spring, with plans for additional stations in the future.
A new water bottle filling station is being introduced in partnership with local company Drop Water. The station allows passengers to purchase flavored water in compostable, plastic-free bottles, or to refill their own reusable bottles with cold or room-temperature water at no cost.
The airport is also collaborating with the 5Cities Homeless Coalition to donate unused toilet paper rolls to local shelter programs.
In partnership with the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, drought-resistant landscaping will be planted to help conserve regional water resources.
New waste and recycling receptacles will be added to improve waste management and encourage recycling among passengers and staff.
The airport is transitioning its operational vehicle fleet from gasoline-powered to electric in an effort to lower emissions.
Community outreach is also a component of the initiative, with educational campaigns being launched to inform travelers and local residents about sustainability practices and their role in supporting them.
“We are committed to providing an exceptional experience for our guests while being mindful of our environmental impact,” said Courtney Johnson, director of airports. “These sustainability initiatives not only enhance the efficiency of our operations but also reflect our responsibility to the community and the environment.”
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to incorporate sustainability into all aspects of the airport’s operations. More information about the airport and its sustainability programs can be found at www.sloairport.com.
