Non-CO₂ emissions

By phasing out the use of fossil fuels, Schiphol is lowering the production of non-CO₂ emissions. Just like CO₂, these emissions are produced by the combustion of fossil fuels in aviation and they contribute to climate change. Non-CO₂ emissions include substances like nitrogen and soot.

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Small amounts, large impact

Although the amounts are relatively small, the impact of non-CO₂ emissions on the environment is greater than that of CO₂. It may be responsible for two thirds of the climate impact of aviation, with one third coming from CO₂. It is still difficult to determine exactly what the impact is. It depends on factors including the weather and flight altitude.

Schiphol Group is taking these measures

Schiphol Group is taking various measures to reduce non-CO₂ emissions:

  • Phasing out fossil fuels. We are phasing out the use of fossil fuels for our own activities at the airport and in the airside ground operation. Schiphol aims to have no CO₂-emissions for our own activities by 2030. Non-CO₂-emissions will therefore also be significantly reduced.
  • Changes to airport charges. As of April 1 2022, part of our airport charges for airlines is based on the nitrogen emissions of their aircraft. This financial incentive stimulates the purchase of lower-nitrogen aircraft engines when airlines renew their fleet.
  • Encouraging the scaling up and use of more SAF by airlines. Our efforts to stimulate the use of more SAF also have a positive effect on the reduction of non-CO₂ emissions. SAF is not yet a 100% sustainable fuel, but a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuel. This fuel emits 70 to 90% less CO₂ compared to fossil kerosene.
  • Collaborating on extra measures. Schiphol is part of the European ClimOp project’s advisory board. This project identifies ways to reduce CO₂ and non-CO₂ emissions in the aviation sector.