Winnipeg Airports Authority on Board with Canada's Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Aviation

WINNIPEG, June 5, 2012 /CNW/ - Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc. applauds the Federal Government on the release of Canada's Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) from Aviation.

The Action Plan is the result of collaborative efforts of the aviation industry, including airports, airlines, air navigation suppliers and manufacturers.

"We all have a role to play in the reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions," said Barry Rempel, President & CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority "Together with our partners in the aviation industry, we are helping to put in place solutions and plans to minimize aviation's carbon footprint."

Among first to commit to reduction through ACI World/IATA, working through the CAC Environment Committee, our team has contributed to the development of information in the Action Plan pertaining to Canadian airports.

The Action Plan sets a goal of reducing GHG emissions from domestic and international operations, and is expected to contribute to global efforts to minimize aviation's carbon emissions.

Three key measures of the Action Plan include: Fleet Renewals and Upgrades, More Efficient Air Operations and Improved Capabilities in Air Traffic Management.

At the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, the Winnipeg Airports Authority has established an Emission Reduction Implementation Plan with a goal of reducing emissions from airport operations.  In partnership with its stakeholders, the Plan aims to reduce emissions from airport operated sources.  Key initiatives include:

• Reducing aircraft power unit run time;
• Common use charging stations for electric tugs;
• Investing in exhaust abatement technologies;
• Phasing out diesel powered ground service equipment to electrically powered equipment;
• Minimizing ground service equipment idling time, and
• Encouraging environmental awareness around the airport campus.

In addition to the above initiatives, sustainable building design principles incorporated into the construction of the new Air Terminal Building will have a substantial impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The new Air Terminal Building was designed and constructed in accordance with LEED Canada Green Building Rating System for New Construction (NC). Buildings that achieve LEED NC certification are generally more efficient and generate less greenhouse gas emissions. WAA is targeting LEED silver certification.

Winnipeg Airports Authority is a non-share capital corporation responsible for the management and operation of Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and affiliate businesses. All surplus revenue over expenses is reinvested by WAA back into the community, primarily through airport development projects. WAA is self sufficient with taxpayers not directly involved in financing airport site redevelopment which is being paid through Airport Improvement Fees (AIF).

Winnipeg Airports Authority serves our region by providing value to our customers and community. A source of pride for our community, we strive to be a leader in its growth and development.

Christine Alongi
Director, Communications & Public Affairs
Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.
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