Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is set to roll out a comprehensive sustainability plan this spring, targeting key areas such as infrastructure, clean transportation, renewable energy, waste management, and climate resilience.
The initiative will introduce significant changes to airport operations, from construction materials and fleet vehicles to the types of paper products used in dining areas and restrooms. Elizabeth Lehman, the airport’s Sustainability Coordinator, highlighted the advantages of these adjustments.
“A lot of the work and thinking about how we’re building out our infrastructure has health benefits,” Lehman said. “There’s also a huge cost savings that we are really looking forward to capturing.”
This plan is a component of the broader Cleveland Climate Plan, which has been in place since 2013 and aims to reduce citywide emissions by 2050. Sarah O’Keeffe, Cleveland’s Director of Sustainability and Climate Action, emphasized the urgency of climate preparedness, noting that the region is already experiencing the effects of a changing climate.
“We are having intense storms,” O’Keeffe said. “We have more storm damage. Our residents are feeling this in flooding, in their basements, and tree damage. We need to make sure our infrastructure is safe. Nature-based solutions help us become resilient and recover.”
O’Keeffe also pointed out that the airport and city government account for only two percent of the overall climate plan, meaning community involvement will be essential. Additional strategies for public participation are expected to be announced in April.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details emerge on how Cleveland residents can contribute to a more sustainable future.