Inside Newcastle Airport’s bold vision as Australia’s most sustainable airport

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Andrew Warrender, CEO of Newcastle Airport, to delve into their groundbreaking journey. You’ll learn:

• How Newcastle Airport became the first airport in Australia to achieve Level 4+ with the Airport Council International Carbon Accreditation Scheme, placing them in the top 12% of airports globally.
• The innovative features of their five-star Green Star rated terminal, including massive underground rainwater tanks, a solar-covered car park that generates all their electricity, and changes in waste segregation and recycling.
• How they achieved net-zero for their Scope 1 and 2 emissions well ahead of their 2030 goal.
• Details on their new international terminal expansion, which is essential for serving the fast-growing Hunter region and its sixth-biggest economy in Australia, and how this growth is integrated with their green goals.
• Their strategic approach to sustainability, including transitioning to electric vehicles and purchasing renewable energy.
• Insights into their AU$235 million green sustainability-linked loan with Commonwealth Bank of Australia, a rare achievement in the airport space, and Andrew’s top tips on how other airports can access similar finance.
• Future plans for integrating sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen, and electric aircraft infrastructure, working closely with airline partners.
• Steps they are taking to build climate resilience into their infrastructure, particularly with drainage plans for the airfield and new terminal.
• Their strong collaboration with the local Awabakal people, the traditional owners, and how they ensure authentic representation and ongoing connection with country.

This interview offers a compelling look at how Newcastle Airport is not only expanding to meet international demand but also leading the charge as the greenest airport in Australia. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about paving the way for a more sustainable future in aviation!