43 AirportImprovement.com October 2026 ENVIRONMENTAL BFI In addition, Hellner recommends being thorough when searching for grants and other funding opportunities. “We apply for everything we can find,” she says. Last, but not least, she says it helps immensely to have visionary airport executives that support electrification. “The leadership from John [Parrott] and his team has made all the difference,” she comments. “Sponsorship from the top down makes it easier.” Striving for Sustainability Although it is too early to quantify how BFI’s 10 new electric vehicles are impacting its carbon footprint, the Fleet Services Division is working on a report to provide that data. The airport’s most recent carbon footprint calculations, compiled in 2023, showed a 37% total emission reduction since 2007. According to Hellner, the case is strong for electric vehicles— particularly light-duty trucks—because airport vehicles have very predictable duty cycles, don’t travel far on a daily basis and have easy access to charging stations. Looking at the bigger picture, BFI achieved Level 3 status in the Airport Carbon Accreditation program last year. This is third-party recognition of a measurable reduction in its operational carbon emissions. So far, 663 airports in 94 countries are working with the organization to reduce their carbon footprints. (For more information, visit www.airportcarbonaccreditation.org.) “Reaching Level 3 puts us about halfway through the certification program,” Parrott says. “It also means we’ve engaged third parties in and around the airport in carbon-footprint reduction.” The airport’s electrification goals also align with the WSDOT Statewide Aviation Sustainability Plan, which addresses reducing energy consumption and waste, improving air and water quality, increasing resilience to climate change and other environmental and operating factors. “By incorporating sustainable practices into airport operations and other activities, airports can contribute to a more sustainable future and reduce environmental impacts while also improving their efficiency, finances and long-term viability,” the plan states. “Sustainable practices not only reduce airports’ environmental impact, but also help build goodwill with passengers, employees and the surrounding community. A well-executed sustainability plan can provide a competitive advantage, attract travelers and tenants and reduce operating costs over time.”
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