To achieve carbon neutrality, we identified recommendations in the areas of energy, vehicles, and equipment and materials management.
Energy
Energy use is DAL’s largest source of carbon emissions. While the City of Dallas procures renewable energy certificates to account for electricity consumption, this is an ongoing cost that is subject to change. We recommended that DAL evaluate the feasibility of producing renewable energy on-site.
Additionally, we recommended investigating ways to reduce overall energy demand. In tandem with this project, we conducted an ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit of DAL facilities to evaluate the efficiency of existing systems and provide recommendations for energy conservation measures.
Implementable solutions include converting lighting to LEDs, adding sensors/controls for de-energizing equipment when not in use, and optimizing the Central Utility Plant. Additionally, the City of Dallas purchased Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) that attribute wind power to cover all electricity, resulting in an 85% reduction in the annual carbon footprint since 2015.
Vehicles and Equipment
The second largest source of DAL’s carbon emissions comes from vehicles and equipment. DAL conducted an alternative-fueled vehicle study that included recommendations for right-sizing the fleet and procuring electric or hybrid vehicles in the future. Additionally, we recommended that the airport investigate low-carbon and alternative fuels, as well as decreasing vehicle and equipment run time, which can reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Material Management
It’s easy to forget that the trash and other materials sent to the landfill not only generate methane as they break down, but also require transportation services to get there—adding to their carbon emissions output. We suggested that DAL examine alternative materials management practices that reduce waste generation at the source, as well as reuse and recycle waste.