A sustainability analysis of airports

Airport expansion is often cited as a key enabler for commercial activity and national or regional economic prosperity, whether in the developed or developing nations. Demand for passenger and freight is increasing globally, but this conflicts with reducing our energy use in the transition to a lower-carbon future. So how is it possible to tell if business or production (or operation) site is becoming more or less sustainable? This is done using a set of benchmarks (indicators) to compare changes in the values of variables (metrics).

Using the Process Analysis Method (PAM) this project will generate a set of indicators and metrics grouped as environmental, economic, and human / social in accordance with the Bruntland report. The PAM is a flexible, transparent, robust, and data-driven approach to designing and developing indicator sets. Previously, the PAM has been used to examine the sustainability of cars, water processing, chemical production, and a river systems. The aim is to create a generic set of indicators applicable to any airport to allow comparisons, though it will be necessary to use a single nation as a case study.

Applicants will have or be expected to receive a first or upper‐second class honours degree in an Engineering, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics or a similar discipline. A Postgraduate Masters degree is not required but may be an advantage. Experience in sustainability, transport, environmental management or energy systems is not essential, however it may be an advantage. In addition, applicants should be highly motivated, able to work in a team and independently, collaborate with others and have good communication skills.