46% reduction in GHG emissions since 2006

Ten years ago, as the magnitude and potential impact of climate change was becoming increasingly clear, the GTAA chose to lead by example. Rather than waiting to comply with international agreements and planned legislation, we moved proactively to find ways of reducing energy consumption and associated GHG emissions. We believed then, as we do today, that it is our responsibility, as Canada’s largest airport and a leading global mega hub, to make a meaningful contribution in this area.

Our efforts are wide-ranging, reflecting the myriad business activities, vehicles and job types that are part of Toronto Pearson’s day-to-day operations. However, the actions we take generally fall into two categories: mitigation, as we work to lower GHG emissions through reduced energy consumption; and adaptation, as we ensure that our facilities are ready for the expected future effects of climate change.

We have achieved significant success with energy reduction projects that focus on switching to energy-efficient LED lighting, and on upgrading the airport’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. In addition, we invest in electric vehicles and charging stations. We encourage employees, passengers and visitors to use public transit. We’ve incorporated green building standards into our construction codes. And we work with our airline partners to promote processes and technologies that lower fuel burn and emissions – for example, by designing our airside infrastructure to minimize the time aircraft spend with their engines idling.

There are currently 32 electric vehicle charging stations around Toronto Pearson, all of them available free of charge to airport employees and the general public. These complement a more extensive network of about 80 charging stations used by electric baggage tugs and other service vehicles in airside operations.