Long Beach Airport (LGB) is making impressive strides in sustainability, reporting a remarkable 38% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions since 2016. This achievement, highlighted by the renewal of its Level 2 Airport Carbon Accreditation, underscores the airport’s ongoing commitment to a greener future. As aviation moves towards sustainability, Long Beach’s progress serves as a benchmark for others in the industry to follow.
A Pathway to Greener Skies
The airport’s carbon reduction journey began with its first Airport Carbon Accreditation in 2021, based on rigorous emissions inventories from 2016 to 2019. These efforts focus on Scope 1 (airport-owned or controlled sources) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy). Verified by independent third parties, the results showcase how dedicated carbon management can significantly lower emissions, setting the stage for future reductions.
With ambitious goals for the future, including a 20% further reduction by 2025 and a 40% reduction by 2030, Long Beach has established itself as a pioneer in sustainable aviation. The long-term vision? Achieving carbon neutrality, which aligns with global trends in decarbonizing the aviation sector.
Sustainable Solutions That Go Beyond the Basics
Long Beach has implemented a broad range of sustainability measures, from fully electrifying all 11 of its commercial gates for ground support equipment to incentivizing the use of cleaner, unleaded aviation fuels (UL94) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for business jets. It has also embarked on a voluntary emissions reduction program with the South Coast Air Quality Management District and has installed solar canopies over 133,000 square feet of parking structures, further demonstrating its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
Airport Director Cynthia Guidry encapsulated this vision, stating, “We’re not just investing in the present – we’re ensuring a greener tomorrow.”
The VURDHAAN Connection
At VURDHAAN, we applaud Long Beach’s achievements and share in its vision of a sustainable future for the aviation sector. As active players in supporting carbon management and regulatory compliance under frameworks like the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, we offer tailored services to help airports meet their sustainability goals efficiently. From Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction strategies to introducing Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and innovative carbon-neutral practices, VURDHAAN’s holistic approach aligns perfectly with the proactive measures adopted by Long Beach.
Our expertise ensures that airports not only meet their regulatory requirements but also enhance their environmental stewardship, ultimately improving their ESG ratings and contributing to a more sustainable aviation industry.
A Greener Future for All
As Long Beach Airport demonstrates, substantial progress is possible when sustainability is at the forefront of operations. With continual advancements in carbon reduction strategies and renewable energy adoption, the aviation industry is flying towards a future that balances growth with environmental responsibility.
At VURDHAAN, we’re proud to be part of this global effort, supporting airports and aviation stakeholders every step of the way. Long Beach Airport’s journey proves that meaningful environmental impact is achievable, and we look forward to helping others follow this path towards a carbon-neutral future.