The Salt Lake City Department of Airports has integrated environmental policies and practices, business operations and asset management functions to ensure that sustainability is managed holistically. The program is continually evolving and innovations are rapidly developing. Some of the current best practice highlights include:
Recycling
- Over 5000 pounds of paper, aluminum and other recyclables are collected monthly from offices and recycled.
- Last year, over 60 tons of newspaper and plastic were recycled from airport terminals.
- In 2007, the airport recycled approximately 264 tons of cardboard.
- Aircraft deicing fluid is collected, processed and resold. Last year, the airport sold over 55,000 gallons of glycol.
- Demolished asphalt and concrete are salvaged and stockpiled for re-use as road base or stabilization material in construction projects.
- In 2007, the airport reused or recycled approximately 84,000 cubic yards of construction debris.
- Vegetation disrupted by construction is converted to mulch and reused.
- Metal from demolition is sent to scrap metal facilities for recycling.
- Used oil from the vehicle fleet and general aviation is recycled.
- Used tires and batteries are returned to suppliers for recycling.
Water conservation
- Since 2001, the airport has planted water conserving landscape that features plants that thrive in Utah’s high desert environment.
- A drip irrigation watering system has been installed for more efficient water use.
- Restrooms are now equipped with water conserving plumbing fixtures which reduces water consumption by half.
Alternative Fuels
- The airport’s shuttle buses run on clean burning natural gas.
- Light and medium duty vehicles have also been converted to natural gas.
- Electric vehicles and hybrids have been incorporated into the airport fleet.
- Tenants are offered incentives to use alternative fuel and there is a natural gas fueling station on the airport.
Use of Technology
- A Building Automation System (BAS) calculates the most efficient use of boilers, chillers, cooling towers and distribution loops. This conserves energy and reduces operating costs.
- The BAS also controls most of the lighting throughout the airport. Lighting is maximized through the use of daylight ambient sensors and time of day use.
- BAS controls outside radiant heaters saving electricity.
Management Practices
- Water based paint is now required replacing high emission producing oil based paints.
- The airport encourages tenant compliance with recycling programs. Delta Air Lines recycles in-flight waste.
- Maintains 450 acres of wetlands west of the airport.
- Currently, thousands of light fixtures are being replaced with more energy efficient, long lasting fixtures.
