Andrew Tyley, RSHP Director, explores how thoughtful design can reshape the future of sustainable travel and achieve airports' 2050 net zero goals
The aviation industry’s target to reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 has become even more challenging in recent months, as governments and global energy suppliers have back peddled polices. Shifting to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) could cut emissions by 80% however, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), adoption still only accounts for 6% of global renewable fuel production. This is well below the 25–30% that aviation needs to reach the net-zero goal. Meanwhile, electric-powered aircraft remains a vision for the future rather than a solution for the present.
Airports as Catalysts for Change
More than just transit points, airports are powerful symbols of global citizenship and have the potential to positively influence change. Aviation gateways as a built- environment provides opportunities to significantly impact net-zero CO2 emissions by reimagining these spaces as nodes of a larger, sustainable ecosystem.
For decades, RSHP have produced lightweight, adaptable, and sustainable designs that reduce carbon footprints and provide a high-quality environment. Aile Est at Geneva Airport, completed in 2021, is an energy-positive marvel powered by 7,000 square metres of photovoltaic panels, geothermal heating, and rainwater harvesting systems. This project is a testament to how thoughtful design can harmonise with ambitious environmental goals.
Convenience and Well-Being
Today’s traveller seeks more than just a means to get from Point A to Point B. They value the experience of the journey and prioritise comfort, leisure, and convenience. Taoyuan Terminal 3, scheduled to open in 2027, is designed to reflect this shift in consumer behaviour. Adjustable interior spaces provide clarity and comfort for passengers, reducing stress and enhancing the overall travel experience.
Designing with modularity is a key component to enhancing passenger experience and sustainability. It enables adaptability and efficiency by allowing scalable, prefabricated components to be easily expanded, reconfigured, or upgraded without extensive reconstruction. The award-winning design, Terminal 4 at Barajas Airport is another excellent example. Its structure features repetitive elements such as the wave-like roof supported by a modular grid system allowing for future expansions making it responsive to evolving passenger needs. We used this thinking to develop the design for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port – Passenger Clearance Building, an example of how modular design can be used to construct buildings in constrained airport environments.
Reimagining the Future
What will airports look like for the children born today? The opportunity is for airports to evolve into flexible and purpose-driven spaces that transcends moving passengers and planes. They can become multi-modal centres, seamlessly connecting various modes of transportation while offering spaces for work, interaction, and leisure. More importantly, they may serve as beacons of sustainability and community engagement.
The aviation industry is in the crosswinds of its net-zero goals. Reimagining airports can lead the way in building a positively connected future. The opportunity is there to innovate, adapt, and invest in architectural design that delivers long-term resilience.
