Waste management and circularity
We are reducing waste and advancing circularity across our global operations through structured environmental management, operational discipline, and targeted initiatives that improve resource efficiency and minimise environmental impact across airports worldwide.
Our approach combines operational controls with targeted initiatives that improve resource efficiency and support more responsible use of materials across our global network.
We manage a wide range of waste streams across cargo, ground handling, fleet maintenance, and office operations, including plastic, wood, paper, metals, uniforms, organic, general, and hazardous waste. Waste segregation is implemented in line with local regulations and airport requirements.
Our Global Environmental Manual defines clear procedures for handling, sorting, storage, and disposal of waste across all categories, ensuring consistency and compliance across the network.
Our approach and measures
Our Global Environmental Manual sets out a structured waste hierarchy that guides our activities:
- We reduce the waste we generate
- We reuse materials and items where possible
- We recycle waste once reduction and reuse options have been applied
Operational waste and hazardous materials
Hazardous waste is managed through defined controls, including appropriate containers, labelling and secure temporary storage to prevent environmental contamination.
In fleet operations, end-of-life assets are processed in line with environmental requirements, prioritising reuse, resale or compliant recycling.
Where airport waste services are not available, Swissport works with certified local providers to ensure appropriate treatment and disposal.
Circular initiatives and resource efficiency
We apply the principles of reduce, reuse and recycle across waste streams including plastic film, wood, paper, uniforms and hazardous waste.
In air cargo operations, key initiatives include recycling used foil wrap at selected locations, extending the lifespan of wooden pallets through reuse and recovery projects such as SquAIR in Germany, and tyre recovery partnerships that support energy recovery and material reuse.
These initiatives help reduce reliance on virgin materials and improve resource efficiency across our operations.
Sustainability in our lounges
Sustainability is a key focus in our Aspire Lounges, where all lounges have eliminated single-use plastic tableware as of 2025.
New lounges are designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating recycled materials, energy-efficient LED lighting and locally sourced products.
Across the network, initiatives continue to focus on reducing operational waste and improving resource efficiency through increased use of recyclable and reusable materials.