March 2025
On March 6th, Schiphol and TULIPS welcomed fourteen airports, airlines, and circular economy experts for a mini-conference on ‘Circularity in Airports’. This event focused on reducing and reusing cabin waste and waste streams from the terminal. Additionally, the reuse of construction materials was discussed. We need to move away from linear waste systems at airports, which cause more emissions.
Understanding Waste Streams as Input for Action at Airports
Measuring is knowing! By gaining better insight into our waste streams, we can take more effective measures to reduce, better separate, and reuse or upcycle waste. Schiphol presented its waste dashboard, Schiphol’s basis for the actions it is taking to become a zero-waste airport. Heathrow then shared experiences on better waste separation in the terminal and more sustainable coffee cups. Brussels Airport showed how they ‘harvest’ materials from demolished buildings for reuse in new constructions. The session was facilitated by TULIPS partner EME.
Positive Circular Developments in Aviation
Circularity is in full development. Many initiatives were discussed during the conference. IATA has succeeded in influencing regulations, so not all cabin waste from outside the EU needs to be incinerated. Additionally, circularity is now linked to CO2 emissions. The potential of innovation was also touched upon. KLM uses data to more accurately estimate which meals and drinks passengers want, resulting in less waste on board. Schiphol talked about the successful collaboration with Transavia, Easyjet, Corendon, and TUI for separating cabin waste. The panel discussion was moderated by TULIPS partner Fraunhofer IML.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
The main conclusion of the conference was that sharing knowledge and experiences during events like this is very valuable. Collaboration with chain partners is also essential. The support of the EU for research and innovative pilots, such as through TULIPS – Green Airports, also contributes. Together, we are working towards zero waste airports!
Did you miss our event? We will share the video recordings on our events page.
