Belfast City Airport in Northern Ireland fuels airside vehicles, equipment with renewable diesel

Photo: Belfast City Airport

In a move that will reduce its annual carbon vehicle emissions by up to 90 percent compared with standard diesel, Belfast City Airport in Northern Ireland has introduced hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), also known as renewable diesel, across 100 percent of its fleet of airside vehicles and equipment. 

This significant shift to lower-carbon fuel marks a major step forward in the airport’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, which includes the recent upgrade of main apron lighting to energy-efficient LED systems. 

“As a responsible business leader, Belfast City Airport is committed to sustainable operations and strives to do all it can to positively impact the environment, the local community and the economy in which it operates,” said Ian Nuttall, the airport’s environment and sustainability manager. 

“By investing in HVO fuel and LED lighting for our main apron, we are demonstrating our dedication to environmental stewardship and making strides in our pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with ambition to achieve this sooner,” Nuttall added. “We are committed to paving the way for an industry that not only connects people with places but also safeguards our environment.” 

Belfast City Airport has reduced the carbon emissions from its operations by approximately 57 percent since 2017, achieving “platinum” status in business in the Community’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey for the fourth consecutive year in 2023. 

“The transition to HVO fuel for all airside vehicles and equipment means we are not only improving the efficiency of our ground operations, but also addressing the impact that we have on the environment,” said Michael McDowell, airfield operations manager at Belfast City Airport.

“Our team is dedicated to integrating greener innovations into everyday practices, ensuring a seamless blend of operational excellence and sustainability,” McDowell added.