Leeds Bradford Airport hails ‘fundamental shift’ as it launches new sustainability strategy
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced the launch of a new sustainability strategy in a move its chief exec described as a “fundamental shift” in how the group measures its success.
The airport has officially launched its “Together for Tomorrow” strategy, bringing in a string of sustainability initiatives including the planned introduction of on-site renewable energy and investment into local charity groups.
LBA said the strategy marks a “pivotal moment” in its history, with the scheme designed to guide the airport into becoming a “modern, responsible, and future-ready gateway for Yorkshire".
Speaking on the launch of the scheme, Vincent Hodder, chief executive officer of LBA, added: “At Leeds Bradford Airport, we believe that the freedom to travel and the necessity of protecting our planet are not mutually exclusive.
“We are not just building a bigger airport; we are building a better one. Together for Tomorrow is more than a set of targets. It represents a fundamental shift in how we define success, placing sustainability at the heart of our decisions and long-term ambitions.
“It is our promise that as we deliver the international connectivity Yorkshire deserves, we do so with a clear conscience and a dedicated focus on the long-term well-being of our planet and our people”.
As part of the strategy, LBA plans to remove all gas from its terminal and generate energy through onsite renewable technologies.
The initiative will form part of the airport’s plan to reach Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.
The new strategy has seen LBA announce that it is aiming for 10 per cent of passengers to use public transport to and from the site. The group has also introduced 100 per cent Hybrid FLYER bus services.
As part of the new scheme, LBA has partnered with the Aire Resilience Company, a group which works with local businesses to fund the use of natural flood defences across the River Aire.
The charity is aiming to “future proof” Leeds, as well as improving biodiversity and water quality along the river.
LBA has announced that it will also ensure at least 35 per cent of its annual spend remains within local postcodes, and has committed to creating a foundation to support local charitable causes.
LBA’s previous sustainability efforts have seen it transition its engineering fleet of vehicles to be fully electric and complete a switch to 100 per cent LED lighting across its runway.
The airport is also part of a consortium leading a £1.5m government-backed study into Power-to-Liquid Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
In addition to its environment initiatives, the new strategy will also aim to champion diversity, equity, and wellbeing within the airport, the group said.
LBA has set a target to see 10 per cent of its employees utilising annual volunteer time by 2030. The group is also implementing a specialised Mental Health Programme with trained first aiders to support its workforce.
Transparency and progress of the strategy will be overseen by the LBA Board of Directors and a dedicated ESG Committee, with performance disclosed annually.
Kunaal Wharfe, general counsel and company secretary at LBA, said: “A truly sustainable strategy must be built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, and deep-rooted accountability.
“At LBA, we are moving beyond simple compliance to ensure that our ESG commitments are woven into the very fabric of our business operations. It is imperative that our growth is not just legally sound, but ethically driven.
“By utilising specific, measurable key performance indicators, and maintaining a strong moral compass in our decision-making, we are providing our stakeholders with the assurance that Together for Tomorrow is a promise we intend to keep”
“Whether it is through our commitment to inclusive infrastructure like our new multi-faith facilities or our rigorous governance frameworks, we are dedicated to creating an airport that reflects the diverse and vibrant community of Yorkshire while setting a benchmark for responsible business practices in aviation.”
The launch comes as LBA also embarks on its LBA:REGEN scheme.
Described by the group as its “most transformative period in decades”, the scheme includes a major transformation and extension of the terminal building and £200m of private investment in the region.