Zero Waste Airports
Various airports have set ambitious targets towards zero waste. However, the definition of ‘zero waste’ varies. TULIPS is introducing three distinct horizons that redefine waste management at airports, paving the path towards a sustainable future
Baseline Circular Airports Methods
Baseline Circular Airports Method (BCAM) is a methodology developed by the project partners and rigorously tested at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport.
BCAM systematically analyzes resource streams, considering composition and relevant stakeholders, treatment processes, and environmental impact. By doing so, it establishes strategic prioritization of resource streams for airports to perform focused and effective interventions.
Note that these methods are published in Frontiers Journal and data is publicly available. Refer to the resources page for tools and guidance for specific steps of the BCAM.
Priority Streams
Three Guiding Principles
To guide the priority streams towards zero waste, three guiding principles from the R-strategies are followed:
- Prevention through smarter product use: This involves rethinking solutions (e.g. Light as a Service), using technologies (e.g. predict food consumption) and stop certain waste streams (e.g. replace paper tissues with hand dryers).
- Extending the lifespan of products/materials: The focus is on reusing, repairing, and refurbishing products and materials already present in the airport environment. By ensuring their continued use, the need for new resources and waste generation is reduced.
- Upcycling: This strategy emphasises improved waste separation to increase recycling rates and move towards a scenario where only upcycling (rather than downcycling or incineration for energy) takes place. This shift promotes the reuse of materials in higher-value applications.
Database
Explore the database of zero waste initiatives covering residual, paper, plastic, and food streams. Browse ideas for prevention, reuse, or recycling, and even contribute your own innovative solutions
Connecting for a Circular Future in Aviation
Join us in accelerating the global circular economy transition. Have initiatives to share or questions to ask? Feel free to reach out to us.