Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Unveils Ambitious 2023 ESG Report

August 19, 2024 Tiana Squire

TORONTO — Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has released its highly anticipated 2023 Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, showcasing significant strides in sustainability and community engagement. The seventh annual report underscores the airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and operational excellence.

The comprehensive report highlights the airport’s progress towards its goal of becoming a global leader in sustainable urban airport operations. It features a detailed technical report and an interactive cover report, complete with video elements, to provide an in-depth look at the airport’s performance in key areas.

PortsToronto, which owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, has emphasized its dedication to sustainability. RJ Steenstra, President and CEO of PortsToronto, remarked, “Airports play a critical role in building cities that thrive. Our location on Toronto’s waterfront has long placed sustainability at the forefront of our operations. This report reflects our ongoing commitment to operate a cleaner, greener, and quieter airport.”

Neil Pakey, President and CEO of Nieuport Aviation, which operates the airport’s passenger terminal, added, “Our commitment to environmental sustainability is a priority shared with all our stakeholders. The report not only reflects our achievements but also our dedication to continuous improvement for the benefit of travelers, the community, and our employees.”

Environmental Achievements:

Renewable Energy: The airport is powered entirely by clean, renewable electricity through Bullfrog Power.
Carbon Reduction: Since 2010, PortsToronto has avoided 20,231 tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to removing over 4,500 cars from the road for a year.
Innovations: The airport has become the first in North America to use PFAS-free foam in firefighting operations and is introducing electric shuttle buses to reduce CO2 emissions.

Community and Social Impact:

Investment: In 2023 alone, the airport invested more than $360,000 in community initiatives, bringing its total contributions since 2009 to $23 million.
Economic Contribution: The airport generates over $2.1 billion in annual economic output and supports 4,450 jobs.
Medical Support: In 2023, the airport facilitated 2,674 medevac flights, highlighting its crucial role in emergency medical services.

Recognition and Awards:

The airport received an Honourable Mention in the Airports Going Green Awards for its efforts to electrify airport access, including Canada’s first zero-emission ferry.
According to Skytrax World Airport Awards 2023, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has been named one of the world’s best airports.
An 18% reduction in overall noise complaints was reported in 2023, despite an increase in commercial activity.

Steenstra concluded, “This report serves as a testament to our dedication to sustainability and community service. As we look towards the future, we remain committed to setting new standards for urban airport operations.”

For more details on the 2023 ESG Report, visit the official website.