The New Terminal One at JFK Airport has published its first ESG report, highlighting sustainability, resilience and community investment initiatives.
The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has published its inaugural Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, highlighting progress in sustainability, energy resilience and community investment as construction advances towards the terminal’s first phase opening in 2026.
Titled From the Ground Up, the report provides an overview of environmental, social and governance achievements delivered throughout the development of the new international gateway, which forms a major component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport.
New Terminal One details sustainability strategy
When fully completed, the New Terminal One will span 2.6 million square feet across a 134-acre site and will be capable of handling up to 23 million passengers annually. The project represents a $9.5 billion investment and is expected to become the largest terminal at JFK Airport.
Central to the development is an advanced energy infrastructure programme designed to improve resilience and reduce environmental impact. The report highlights the creation of a large-scale microgrid energy system alongside one of the largest solar energy installations on a US airport terminal.
The energy infrastructure is intended to support reliable airport operations during periods of grid disruption and severe weather while helping reduce long-term emissions.
Uzoamaka N. Okoye said: “As we build a transformational international travel experience in the United States, sustainability and resilience are not add-ons; they are foundational.”
She added: “This ESG report also showcases our commitment to integrating innovation, energy efficiency and responsible development into every phase of the project, from construction through future operations.”
The report also outlines progress towards LEED Gold certification and details initiatives focused on waste reduction, water management and energy efficiency.
A key part of the sustainability strategy is the introduction of an all-electric ground support equipment fleet. Airport officials say the terminal will become the first airport terminal globally to commit to a centralised fleet made up entirely of electric ground support vehicles, supporting wider efforts to reduce operational emissions.
Community and economic impact
Beyond environmental initiatives, the report highlights investment in local communities and workforce development. More than $1.72 million has been invested in programmes supporting education, business development, workforce training and environmental stewardship.
The project is also expected to support more than 10,000 jobs, including over 6,000 union construction positions during the development phase.
In addition, more than $3.9 billion in green bonds were issued across 2024 and 2025 to support sustainable infrastructure investment and long-term project financing.
The first phase of the New Terminal One, including new arrivals and departures facilities and an initial 14 gates, is scheduled to open in 2026. Upon completion, the facility will feature 23 gates and play a central role in the future growth of JFK Airport.
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