Environmental management planning: A Canadian perspective

Abstract

The aviation industry has faced significant economic and environmental challenges over the past 20 years. Increased public concern regarding protection of the environment from the impacts of transportation has prompted governments to seek voluntary and regulatory measures to manage the various modes of transportation. Canada, as a global partner, has responded to the challenges of airport environmental management with a balanced approach between voluntary and regulatory measures. Through the development of environmental management plans and procedures, airports and carriers have been able to reduce negative impacts on air, water and soil and respond to challenges concerning aircraft de-icing fluids, greenhouse gases (GHGs) and other air emissions. This paper provides an overview of environmental issues facing the Canadian Government and aviation industry, management procedures utilised to manage these issues, and environmental management challenges of the future. It will focus on examples of a water quality issue through the management of de-icing fluids. It will also provide an overview of the management of GHGs and air pollutants through a voluntary agreement.