Planet
In our efforts to reduce the negative environmental impact of our operations, we focus on the efficient use of resources, effective planning, lean processes, and invest in eco-friendly equipment and infrastructure.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Mitigating our impact
As part of our commitment to improve our environmental programs and to ensure compliance with ISO 14001:2015, we are currently refining our environmental management system. 17 of our locations are certified. Drawing insights from these stations, we plan to expand coverage to at least 80 percent by the end of 2024. This system will enhance our internal and external reporting capabilities, amplifying our contribution to environmentally responsible operations at the airports we serve.
Fuel efficiency and emissions
PATH TO DECARBONIZATION
At Swissport, we have a 10-year plan for decarbonization, collaborating with our ecosystem to inspire and implement change. Across our workforce of 60,000 people in 45 countries worldwide, we aim to adapt the equipment they use and the way they work to drive our business transformation.
Environmental Protection on the Ground
DE-ICING / Anti-icing
To de-ice an aircraft, de-icing fluids containing glycol are used. Glycol is low in toxicity and breaks down within weeks. At Swissport, we optimize its use, minimizing glycol amounts by incorporating biodegradable carbon-based de-icing agents applied through sprinkler systems. The glycol mix is subject to national laws and local regulations.
FUELING
We are fully committed to meeting customers' into-plane, GSE fueling, and fuel-storage needs in an environmentally friendly manner. Our primary environmental concern and goal revolve around safeguarding the biospheres surrounding our operations and preventing any fuel releases. To address this, Swissport has implemented policies and procedures, including the Environmental Policy Statement and the Environmental Management System. We report and investigate every incident. In the case of a major fuel release and depending on the type of material, an emergency plan will be activated. This plan is managed in line with local airport emergency plans.
WASTE MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULARITY
Swissport takes global strides in waste management, from waste reduction in cargo centers across Europe to the introduction of recycled material uniforms in Australia. In air cargo handling, Swissport aims to implement mandatory waste avoidance policies at all its 115 air cargo centers worldwide by 2027. The ongoing implementation of ISO 14001 across its stations ensures standardized practices, fostering continuous improvement in waste management.
Some key iniatives include the collection and recycling of used foil wrap at various European locations. Additionally, Swissport extends the lifespan of wooden pallets through projects like SquAIR timber pallets in Germany, made from 100% recycled cardboard.
New Concept for Lounges
Newly opened lounges are also conceptualized with sustainability in mind. For example, the Aspire | Air Canada Café – a joint lounge concept between Swissport and Air Canada that was launched in June 2023 – has been built to meet the LEED ID+C standards, a globally recognized certification that ensures a space is designed using sustainable building practices. Across our
network of lounges operated by Swissport’s subsidiary Aspire Lounges, we committed to eliminating single-use plastic tableware by 2025, replacing them with recyclable or reusable products.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE OFFICE
Greener Offices
Swissport’s administrative units do not have a notable environmental impact. Even so, Swissport is intent on keeping the environmental impact of its offices to a minimum by promoting local initiatives and learning from them. Regional teams, as well as the teams at our company head quarters, are encouraged to reduce their energy consumption and optimize their material and waste management as much as possible. As we see it, success in this area depends on everyone involved.
INNOVATION
Tech-Driven Initiatives
Innovation and digitalization continue to add value to the services we provide our customers, and they help us improve the efficiency and sustainability of our business. From pioneering digital check-in solutions to advancing cargo processes with kiosks and mobile devices, Swissport strives to eliminate paper usage and provide real-time reporting for freight status checkpoints. The company is dedicated to optimizing flight and warehouse operations through various technological solutions, including load-based forecasting and strategic partnerships like the one with Airportr for off-baggage processing.