Environmental impact of air transport

Abstract

Purpose: The investigations focus on environmental impact of air transport. The main purpose of the study was to present the core actions performed by the Kraków - Balice airport, the first airport in Poland to join the Partnership for implementing sustainable development objectives (2018), in full respect of the principles of sustainable development and the natural environment around the airport. Design/Methodology/Approach: The analysis of the actions pursued by the Polish airport within the framework of sustainable development is based on the available scientific literature and sustainable development reports issued by the studied airport between 2016 and 2018. Findings: Rapid development of air transport over the last 50 years has not gone unnoticed by the natural environment. Studies in the field have demonstrated negative effects both locally, around airports, and globally, considering climate change issues and air pollution. Practical Implications: Continuing developments in air transport entail not only an economic advantage but also stimulated investments in state-of-the-art technologies. With an increased application of know-how and innovative approaches of other sectors, there will be new opportunities to address the issue of environmental impact of air transport. However, the impact of air transport activities on climate change, noise levels, and air quality is deemed to grow year by year, which has an effect on health and life quality of the society. Originality/Value: A presentation of core actions undertaken by the airport to protect the natural environment. The variety of currently introduced activities continue to generate passenger air transport demand, which leads to a general increase of its environmental impact. Given the above, we continue to explore ways to meet environmental challenges, whilst ensuring a long-term success of air transport.