Environmental management system

Introduction

Environmental protection has been a top priority for Athens International Airport (AIA) since the first day of airport’s construction. Athens airport is committed to responsibly and effectively monitor all environmental aspects and minimise or prevent, where possible, the impact of airport operations on the environment through initiatives that exceed regulatory requirements. Our Environmental Policy as well as our Environmental Commitment focus on our goals of continuously improving our environmental performance and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while maximising the energy efficiency of our infrastructure. Effective management of all environmental issues is facilitated by the implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS) – certified in accordance with EN ISO 14001:2015.

In detail, the environmental aspects which are closely monitored and managed by Athens airport Environmental Services Department are the following:

Aircraft Noise

Athens International Airport has installed a NOise MOnitoring System (NOMOS) consisting of one (1) mobile and ten (10) permanent Noise Monitoring Terminals (NMTs) which provides a detailed profile of aircraft noise in residential areas underneath flight paths. In this framework, Athens International Airport provides local residents with a web-based application -- WebTrak -- which presents a composite view of the area, displaying aircraft flight track data as well as noise levels in the vicinity of the airport. Furthermore, we have established and operate, on a 24-hour basis, a dedicated phone line ("We Listen” - (+30) 210 3530003) and an email NoiseComplaints@aia.gr where interested citizens may submit their complaints or request clarifications regarding noise issues. 

Air Quality & Climate Change

Athens International Airport operates one of the most extensive and modern airport air quality monitoring systems, comprising an Air Quality Monitoring Network (AQMN), with five (5) permanent monitoring stations installed in the neighbouring areas of Glyka Nera, Koropi, Markopoulo, Pallini, and Spata, and one mobile station, a Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy system (DOAS), a SOnic Detection and Ranging system (SODAR), a Radio Acoustic Sounding System (RASS) and a Meteorological Station.

Our company is committed to reducing its contribution to climate change by successfully implementing measures to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions including the energy efficient design of the airport buildings and infrastructure, extensive use of natural gas, well-developed access to the Airport via public transport and other measures. Athens International Airport implements an annual Corporate Climate Change Action Plan, primarily aiming to reduce energy and fuel consumption, both directly and indirectly, which also includes, participating in the global industry initiative led by Airports Council International: Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA), which aims to help airports manage and reduce their carbon emissions.

Waste Management

Athens International Airport is responsible for managing all waste generated within the airport premises. For this purpose, it has developed a comprehensive waste management system based on "The Polluter Pays” principle, promoting waste separation at the source, recycling and reuse. The system manages solid non-hazardous waste, hazardous waste and medical/clinical waste. Additionally, AIA has established a Recycling Center, equipped with bins for paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, electronic waste, etc., available also for the airport personnel to recycle household. In June 2024, for the first time, we received certification for Zero Waste To Landfill (ZWTL), following a successful onsite audit, which confirmed that we diverted 88% of our waste from going to landfill, in 2023. Consequently, we set a benchmark for our current performance and received official recognition for our efforts in promoting recycling and reducing the burden on the already limited landfill capacity in Attica. The next step is to continue working closely with the waste contractors and third parties operating at the airport to further improve our performance.

Water & Soil Management

Athens International Airport makes every possible effort to reduce water consumption and to prevent water pollution at the airport. In this context, we systematically monitor the quality of surface and groundwater through sampling at permanent onsite monitoring wells, as well as water consumption (potable and for irrigation). Moreover, all industrial wastewater produced at the airport is treated onsite at its Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility (IWTF). AIA is one of very few airports worldwide that operates its own Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), which treats all sewage from the airport site. Additionally, Athens International Airport monitors soil quality across the airport site by performing ad hoc sampling and analyses.

Biodiversity and Wildlife Management

Athens International Airport implements a comprehensive action program aimed at preserving biodiversity at all levels: plant and animal species, ecosystems or habitats, and landscapes. In this context, in 2008, Athens International Airport "adopted” the Vravrona Wetland, a Site of Community Importance (SCI) included in the Community Network NATURA 2000.  In 2015, the Artemis Wetland "Aliki”, a site under protection according to the national regulatory framework, was also “adopted”. In 2023, AIA became a partner of the United for Wildlife Transportation Taskforce, part of the Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales, to combat illegal wildlife trade. To reduce the risk of wildlife strikes with aircraft, Athens International Airport implements a Wildlife Management Plan, directly linked to AIA's Environmental Management System and Aviation Safety Management System.

Community Engagement

Athens International Airport implements an annual Community Engagement Plan (CEP) with targeted investment in social, educational, cultural, athletic, environmental and other initiatives that goes well beyond the scope of any legal obligations and contribute both to establish AIA as a good neighbour and maintaining its social license to operate (SLO).

Further information regarding Athens International Airport's environmental activities can be found in the annual electronic publication “Care for the Environment”.