Birmingham Airport (BHX) successfully reduced its carbon emissions by 8% for the 2024/25 fiscal year, setting a record for its largest annual drop in emissions. This achievement is part of the airport’s strategy to reach net zero emissions by the year 2033.

According to Tom Denton, the Head of Sustainability, this reduction reflects substantial progress made over the past year. He stated: “We’re delighted to share our annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report, which clearly highlights the incredible progress that we have made over the past year in reducing our carbon emissions. 2024/25 was our biggest emissions reduction for a full operational year to date – a significant achievement that is illustrative of our ongoing work to transition to more renewable energy sources. Looking ahead, we will shortly be publishing our new Sustainability Strategy which will outline how we will be doubling down on our efforts to achieve net zero status by 2033.”

The report includes noteworthy advancements such as the installation of the UK’s largest airside solar farm, which now generates 100% of the airport’s energy requirements during peak daytime conditions. Additionally, Birmingham Airport has maintained Carbon Accreditation Level 3 for three consecutive years, thanks to its ongoing efforts to reduce emissions from third-party partners.

Other significant initiatives include a trial of HVO fuel, a biofuel produced entirely from renewable waste, which has proven to cut carbon emissions by as much as 90%. This innovative approach is being replicated at various UK airports as they seek environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional diesel.