When it comes to reducing our environmental impact, DFW International Airport is taking a balanced approach. By switching to renewable energy and implementing programs to use less of it, we have dramatically reduced our carbon footprint – and our energy costs. Beneficial results like these make smart business sense too. Far from finished with our decade-long efforts, we continue to seek out new ways to lessen our impact on the environment each year and set new industry standards.
Trusted With Tomorrow
As DFW grows and competition for natural resources increases, our future success depends on strengthening and preserving today's assets - our people, our airport and our community - for tomorrow. DFW Airport embraces sustainability as a way to protect our environment, support our neighbors and develop our business. We are taking the steps today to ensure tomorrow's success.
Little Changes, Big Results
By practicing sustainability, DFW positions itself as an industry leader and a model corporate citizen. As a result, DFW aligns all sustainability practices together under one umbrella to further our efforts and to guide our future decisions.
DFW is committed to engaging our stakeholders on sustainability issues relevant to our Airport, People, and Community in a manner that is honest, transparent, and productive. In an effort to better communicate our strategies, successes, and challenges in becoming a more sustainable enterprise, we have produced the following annual report. Our report is prepared in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Guidelines. GRI, a non-profit organization, has pioneered and developed a comprehensive Sustainability Reporting Framework that enables all organizations to measure and report their economic, environmental, social and governance performance. This report serves as an important milestone in our continued journey down the path of sustainability.
DFW takes its responsibility to the planet seriously. DFW maintains robust programs to foster the sustainable use of natural resources, the efficient use of energy and the prevention of pollution.
DFW partners with the regional clean air partnership and campaign, Air North Texas, to collaborate to improve air quality, spread public awareness, and motivate the region to make clean air choices.
As proud Texans, DFW partners with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to Take Care of Texas by pledging to reduce emissions, conserve energy, use water wisely and recycle.
Sustainability
DFW’s Environmental Commitment DFW is committed to instituting a more holistic and systematic culture promoting environmental stewardship and social responsibility by operating our airport in a manner which demonstrates performance by exceeding regulatory compliance by integrating and balancing environmental standards and considerations into decision making, operations and organizational culture. DFW Airport will improve procedures to prevent and mitigate environmental emergencies and focus on education and collaboration to ensure compliance and to improve performance. Driven by the belief that actions taken today will impact the quality of life for future generations, environmental impacts will be continuously evaluated, using a life cycle assessment process. A copy of DFW’s complete Environmental Commitment may be accessed through the following link.
Growing responsibly is a business imperative, and the implementation of sustainability practices demonstrates our commitment to our community and the environment. DFW’s philosophy and approach is based on the United Nation’s (UN) concept of sustainable development, defined as “development that meets the needs of present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” To achieve sustainable development for our airport, the region, our nation, and the world, we must adopt a holistic systems approach to how we do business. DFW’s approach considers economic viability, operational efficiency, natural resource conservation, and social responsibility (EONS). The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) form the blueprint we use to identify challenges, define solutions, and measure results.
DFW’s Sustainability Management Plan outlines the airport’s roadmap to advancing its sustainability efforts, and our annual Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report showcases DFW’s most recent achievements. ESG reports can be accessed here.
Environmental Management System (EMS) DFW’s goal is to continue to lead the air transportation industry by establishing and implementing programs that involve innovative environmental planning and proactive environmental leadership in order to reduce DFW’s environmental footprint. The Environmental Management System (EMS) provides the framework which will be used to make environmentally responsible decisions and manage critical environmental aspects in order to minimize the impact of activities. The DFW EMS not only includes a commitment to the laws, regulations, and policies concerning environmental issues, our EMS also recognizes that the airport has grown and matured beyond compliance and has transitioned priorities to social responsibility and environmental performance. DFW’s EMS places an intentional focus on measuring the Airport’s performance in areas such as natural resource conservation, proactive and strategic environmental management, energy conservation, and protection of human health.
Water Resources
DFW instituted a more holistic and systematic culture dedicated to preserving one of our nation’s most valuable resources -- water.
Many of the programs managed under DFW’s Environmental Affairs Department (EAD) are either driven by regulatory obligations or conservation priorities, but regardless of the driver, the overall objectives are still in line with the Clean Water Act (CWA) to return our nation’s waters to standards that are fishable and swimmable. DFW is committed to operating the airport in a manner that encourages environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and demonstrates performance by exceeding regulatory compliance standards through sustainability, resiliency, and innovation.
DFW’s Watershed
At over 17,000 acres, DFW is larger than the city of Manhattan. The Airport manages over 258 miles of storm sewer pipes, over 100 stormwater outfalls, and 26 miles of creeks and channels, discharging into eight distinct watersheds and, eventually, the Trinity River.
DFW maintains a watershed program to monitor the health of Airport watersheds via routine sampling and analysis of water quality data. The Airport is also an active participant in the Trinity River Authority (TRA) Clean Rivers Program and voluntarily contributes data to the ongoing assessment of the Trinity River.
A 2017 Bioassessment Study conducted in partnership with the University of North Texas revealed that Bear Creek, the Airport’s largest watershed, provided an exceptional rating for aquatic life use, and that Trigg Lake was in good ecological health.
Stormwater Stormwater discharges are generated by runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and rooftops during rainfall and snow events. Stormwater flows across exposed surfaces where it picks up various pollutants that could severely affect water quality. Stormwater runoff discharges into our nation’s creeks, rivers, and other receiving waters untreated. Stormwater runoff is one of the most significant pathways of water pollution.
Watch this video to learn where stormwater flows and more about stormwater pollution.
More information can be found at the following links:
In 1987, Congress enacted the CWA Amendments which required the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a two-phase comprehensive regulatory program aimed at reducing water pollution produced from storm water discharges. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program was promulgated by the U.S. EPA in 1990, and authorized the discharge of storm water associated with specific industrial activities, large construction projects, and large and medium municipalities located in urban areas. Phase II of the NPDES program was promulgated in 1999 and expanded the previous regulatory program by requiring permit authorization from small municipalities in urban areas.
In the state of Texas, the NPDES program is administered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) under the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES). DFW Airport’s stormwater discharges are regulated under the TPDES Industrial, Construction, and Municipal permits.
DFW’s Municipal Stormwater Program
DFW is considered a small municipality and is responsible for minimizing pollutants from discharging into the Airport’s municipal separate storm sewer system or MS4. DFW has developed a stormwater program that protects our natural resources and reduces the discharge of stormwater pollutants through implementation of the following minimum control measures (MCMs):
The NPDES Program also authorizes stormwater discharges from specific industry sectors, as designated by their standard industrial classification (SIC) code. These industries are required to obtain a TPDES Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3). A large portion of the air transportation industry is required to comply with this program.
The Airport implements a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3) to minimize stormwater pollution generated from industrial activities including fueling, vehicle and equipment maintenance, and aircraft deicing.
Airport tenants conducting industrial activities as defined by their SIC code may also need to comply with the TPDES MSGP program. If you operate at DFW Airport and you think you might be regulated under this program, refer to the following list of regulated sectors and SIC codes.
In addition to complying with various storm water regulations, the Environmental Affairs Department requires Board employees who are responsible for implementing or maintaining elements of the SWP3 to complete the Stormwater Awareness Course available through the LearningHub. The course is available and recommended for all Board employees. Environmental Affairs also encourages airport employees, contractors, and tenants to integrate the following pollution prevention measures into day-to-day activities.
DFW Airport Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3) (As Required by MSGP Permit)
Multi-Sector General Permit- authorizes stormwater discharges associated with industrial activities. The purpose of this program is to permit stormwater and other allowable non-storm water discharges from industries identified as major contributors to stormwater pollution. The air transportation industry is required to comply with this program. Permitted facilities must develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3) which identifies the control mechanisms to be utilized to reduce stormwater pollution. Sections from the DFW Airport SWP3 are provided below.
Did you know that sediment is the most common pollutant in water bodies? The most concentrated sediment releases come from construction activities. Sediment impacts can result in flooding, degradation of aquatic life, and nutrient/chemical transport to name a few.
DFW Airport works with contractors, developers, and tenants to develop plans, and best management practices to minimize construction related pollutant discharges as regulated by the following TPDES stormwater construction permits TXR150000 and TXG110000.
To facilitate successful construction projects, DFW Airport also provides construction related resources available to contractors to assist in complying with all environmental issues related to their project.
In addition, DFW supports regional stormwater quality by implementing the integrated Stormwater Management (iSWM) technical manual managed by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
Waste Management
The complex nature of DFW Airport yields unique challenges with regard to the management of waste materials generated by Airport activities. DFW recognizes that an integrated approach to waste management (incorporating procurement practices, waste reduction strategies, and individual waste stream management) will better serve the Airport Board’s mission and support Strategic Plan Key Results.
The Integrated Waste Management and Pollution Prevention Plan (IWMPPP) provides a detailed guide for managing the different types of wastes generated at the airport in addition to meeting the requirements as defined in 30 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §335.471-§335.480. The policies, procedures, and applicable rules will be communicated throughout the Airport Board and to Board contractors by making this document available online, through training, and, as necessary, to achieve environmental compliance.
Construction Environmental Documents
The following list of environmental documents may be required for construction projects. For specific questions regarding potential environmental issues associated with a project, please contact the DFW Airport Environmental Affairs Department at 972-973-5560.
DFW continues to invest its resources in the community by supporting local chambers of commerce, fostering environmental education and outreach, sponsoring educational initiatives and spearheading its annual United Way campaign that donates hundreds of thousands of dollars to worthwhile agencies. In addition, local volunteers contribute to the Airport by volunteering for DFW's well-known Ambassador program.
Supplier Diversity
DFW has set a national standard for supporting minority- and women-owned enterprises. The Airport's investment in M/WBE business development creates a strong pool of available vendors and allows these firms to grow and create jobs strengthening the economy of our community.
Noise Mitigation
The goal of DFW's Noise Compatibility Center is to monitor and minimize flight-related noise in communities near the Airport. Using a network of noise-monitoring stations located throughout nearby neighborhoods, the Noise Compatibility Center responds to complaints and works with partner agencies to reduce future infractions. In addition to its monitoring duties, the Airport's Noise Compatibility Center also assists nearby communities in assessing the impact of flight noise on their land use plans.
Quality of Life
DFW places a high priority on improving the quality of life for the community. The Airport is proud of its role as the economic engine of North Texas and of its ongoing efforts to lead a wide variety of initiatives that impact the surrounding region.
Contacts
DFW Airport welcomes your comments, questions and concerns regarding our programs.
Street Address:
Environmental Affairs Department
DFW Airport Headquarters Building
2400 Aviation Drive
DFW Airport, TX 75261
Mailing Address:
Environmental Affairs Department
DFW International Airport
P.O. Box 619428
DFW Airport, TX 75261-9428
Phone/Fax:
Environmental Affairs Department Main Phone:9729735560
Environmental Affairs Department Fax:9729735561
Sustainability Officer:9729733670
Aircraft Noise and Flight Track Reporting Line:9729733192
To report specific environmental concerns, contact environmental@dfwairport.com or call 972 973 5577 for anonymous reports.
The First Carbon Neutral Airport in the Americas
When it comes to reducing our environmental impact, DFW International Airport is taking a balanced approach. By switching to renewable energy and implementing programs to use less of it, we have dramatically reduced our carbon footprint – and our energy costs. Beneficial results like these make smart business sense too. Far from finished with our decade-long efforts, we continue to seek out new ways to lessen our impact on the environment each year and set new industry standards.
Trusted With Tomorrow
As DFW grows and competition for natural resources increases, our future success depends on strengthening and preserving today's assets - our people, our airport and our community - for tomorrow. DFW Airport embraces sustainability as a way to protect our environment, support our neighbors and develop our business. We are taking the steps today to ensure tomorrow's success.
Little Changes, Big Results
By practicing sustainability, DFW positions itself as an industry leader and a model corporate citizen. As a result, DFW aligns all sustainability practices together under one umbrella to further our efforts and to guide our future decisions.
DFW is committed to engaging our stakeholders on sustainability issues relevant to our Airport, People, and Community in a manner that is honest, transparent, and productive. In an effort to better communicate our strategies, successes, and challenges in becoming a more sustainable enterprise, we have produced the following annual report. Our report is prepared in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Guidelines. GRI, a non-profit organization, has pioneered and developed a comprehensive Sustainability Reporting Framework that enables all organizations to measure and report their economic, environmental, social and governance performance. This report serves as an important milestone in our continued journey down the path of sustainability.
DFW takes its responsibility to the planet seriously. DFW maintains robust programs to foster the sustainable use of natural resources, the efficient use of energy and the prevention of pollution.
DFW partners with the regional clean air partnership and campaign, Air North Texas, to collaborate to improve air quality, spread public awareness, and motivate the region to make clean air choices.
As proud Texans, DFW partners with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to Take Care of Texas by pledging to reduce emissions, conserve energy, use water wisely and recycle.
Sustainability
DFW’s Environmental Commitment DFW is committed to instituting a more holistic and systematic culture promoting environmental stewardship and social responsibility by operating our airport in a manner which demonstrates performance by exceeding regulatory compliance by integrating and balancing environmental standards and considerations into decision making, operations and organizational culture. DFW Airport will improve procedures to prevent and mitigate environmental emergencies and focus on education and collaboration to ensure compliance and to improve performance. Driven by the belief that actions taken today will impact the quality of life for future generations, environmental impacts will be continuously evaluated, using a life cycle assessment process. A copy of DFW’s complete Environmental Commitment may be accessed through the following link.
Growing responsibly is a business imperative, and the implementation of sustainability practices demonstrates our commitment to our community and the environment. DFW’s philosophy and approach is based on the United Nation’s (UN) concept of sustainable development, defined as “development that meets the needs of present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” To achieve sustainable development for our airport, the region, our nation, and the world, we must adopt a holistic systems approach to how we do business. DFW’s approach considers economic viability, operational efficiency, natural resource conservation, and social responsibility (EONS). The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) form the blueprint we use to identify challenges, define solutions, and measure results.
DFW’s Sustainability Management Plan outlines the airport’s roadmap to advancing its sustainability efforts, and our annual Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report showcases DFW’s most recent achievements. ESG reports can be accessed here.
Environmental Management System (EMS) DFW’s goal is to continue to lead the air transportation industry by establishing and implementing programs that involve innovative environmental planning and proactive environmental leadership in order to reduce DFW’s environmental footprint. The Environmental Management System (EMS) provides the framework which will be used to make environmentally responsible decisions and manage critical environmental aspects in order to minimize the impact of activities. The DFW EMS not only includes a commitment to the laws, regulations, and policies concerning environmental issues, our EMS also recognizes that the airport has grown and matured beyond compliance and has transitioned priorities to social responsibility and environmental performance. DFW’s EMS places an intentional focus on measuring the Airport’s performance in areas such as natural resource conservation, proactive and strategic environmental management, energy conservation, and protection of human health.
Water Resources
DFW instituted a more holistic and systematic culture dedicated to preserving one of our nation’s most valuable resources -- water.
Many of the programs managed under DFW’s Environmental Affairs Department (EAD) are either driven by regulatory obligations or conservation priorities, but regardless of the driver, the overall objectives are still in line with the Clean Water Act (CWA) to return our nation’s waters to standards that are fishable and swimmable. DFW is committed to operating the airport in a manner that encourages environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and demonstrates performance by exceeding regulatory compliance standards through sustainability, resiliency, and innovation.
DFW’s Watershed
At over 17,000 acres, DFW is larger than the city of Manhattan. The Airport manages over 258 miles of storm sewer pipes, over 100 stormwater outfalls, and 26 miles of creeks and channels, discharging into eight distinct watersheds and, eventually, the Trinity River.
DFW maintains a watershed program to monitor the health of Airport watersheds via routine sampling and analysis of water quality data. The Airport is also an active participant in the Trinity River Authority (TRA) Clean Rivers Program and voluntarily contributes data to the ongoing assessment of the Trinity River.
A 2017 Bioassessment Study conducted in partnership with the University of North Texas revealed that Bear Creek, the Airport’s largest watershed, provided an exceptional rating for aquatic life use, and that Trigg Lake was in good ecological health.
Stormwater Stormwater discharges are generated by runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and rooftops during rainfall and snow events. Stormwater flows across exposed surfaces where it picks up various pollutants that could severely affect water quality. Stormwater runoff discharges into our nation’s creeks, rivers, and other receiving waters untreated. Stormwater runoff is one of the most significant pathways of water pollution.
Watch this video to learn where stormwater flows and more about stormwater pollution.
More information can be found at the following links:
In 1987, Congress enacted the CWA Amendments which required the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a two-phase comprehensive regulatory program aimed at reducing water pollution produced from storm water discharges. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program was promulgated by the U.S. EPA in 1990, and authorized the discharge of storm water associated with specific industrial activities, large construction projects, and large and medium municipalities located in urban areas. Phase II of the NPDES program was promulgated in 1999 and expanded the previous regulatory program by requiring permit authorization from small municipalities in urban areas.
In the state of Texas, the NPDES program is administered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) under the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES). DFW Airport’s stormwater discharges are regulated under the TPDES Industrial, Construction, and Municipal permits.
DFW’s Municipal Stormwater Program
DFW is considered a small municipality and is responsible for minimizing pollutants from discharging into the Airport’s municipal separate storm sewer system or MS4. DFW has developed a stormwater program that protects our natural resources and reduces the discharge of stormwater pollutants through implementation of the following minimum control measures (MCMs):
The NPDES Program also authorizes stormwater discharges from specific industry sectors, as designated by their standard industrial classification (SIC) code. These industries are required to obtain a TPDES Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3). A large portion of the air transportation industry is required to comply with this program.
The Airport implements a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3) to minimize stormwater pollution generated from industrial activities including fueling, vehicle and equipment maintenance, and aircraft deicing.
Airport tenants conducting industrial activities as defined by their SIC code may also need to comply with the TPDES MSGP program. If you operate at DFW Airport and you think you might be regulated under this program, refer to the following list of regulated sectors and SIC codes.
In addition to complying with various storm water regulations, the Environmental Affairs Department requires Board employees who are responsible for implementing or maintaining elements of the SWP3 to complete the Stormwater Awareness Course available through the LearningHub. The course is available and recommended for all Board employees. Environmental Affairs also encourages airport employees, contractors, and tenants to integrate the following pollution prevention measures into day-to-day activities.
DFW Airport Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3) (As Required by MSGP Permit)
Multi-Sector General Permit- authorizes stormwater discharges associated with industrial activities. The purpose of this program is to permit stormwater and other allowable non-storm water discharges from industries identified as major contributors to stormwater pollution. The air transportation industry is required to comply with this program. Permitted facilities must develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWP3) which identifies the control mechanisms to be utilized to reduce stormwater pollution. Sections from the DFW Airport SWP3 are provided below.
Did you know that sediment is the most common pollutant in water bodies? The most concentrated sediment releases come from construction activities. Sediment impacts can result in flooding, degradation of aquatic life, and nutrient/chemical transport to name a few.
DFW Airport works with contractors, developers, and tenants to develop plans, and best management practices to minimize construction related pollutant discharges as regulated by the following TPDES stormwater construction permits TXR150000 and TXG110000.
To facilitate successful construction projects, DFW Airport also provides construction related resources available to contractors to assist in complying with all environmental issues related to their project.
In addition, DFW supports regional stormwater quality by implementing the integrated Stormwater Management (iSWM) technical manual managed by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
Waste Management
The complex nature of DFW Airport yields unique challenges with regard to the management of waste materials generated by Airport activities. DFW recognizes that an integrated approach to waste management (incorporating procurement practices, waste reduction strategies, and individual waste stream management) will better serve the Airport Board’s mission and support Strategic Plan Key Results.
The Integrated Waste Management and Pollution Prevention Plan (IWMPPP) provides a detailed guide for managing the different types of wastes generated at the airport in addition to meeting the requirements as defined in 30 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §335.471-§335.480. The policies, procedures, and applicable rules will be communicated throughout the Airport Board and to Board contractors by making this document available online, through training, and, as necessary, to achieve environmental compliance.
Construction Environmental Documents
The following list of environmental documents may be required for construction projects. For specific questions regarding potential environmental issues associated with a project, please contact the DFW Airport Environmental Affairs Department at 972-973-5560.
DFW continues to invest its resources in the community by supporting local chambers of commerce, fostering environmental education and outreach, sponsoring educational initiatives and spearheading its annual United Way campaign that donates hundreds of thousands of dollars to worthwhile agencies. In addition, local volunteers contribute to the Airport by volunteering for DFW's well-known Ambassador program.
Supplier Diversity
DFW has set a national standard for supporting minority- and women-owned enterprises. The Airport's investment in M/WBE business development creates a strong pool of available vendors and allows these firms to grow and create jobs strengthening the economy of our community.
Noise Mitigation
The goal of DFW's Noise Compatibility Center is to monitor and minimize flight-related noise in communities near the Airport. Using a network of noise-monitoring stations located throughout nearby neighborhoods, the Noise Compatibility Center responds to complaints and works with partner agencies to reduce future infractions. In addition to its monitoring duties, the Airport's Noise Compatibility Center also assists nearby communities in assessing the impact of flight noise on their land use plans.
Quality of Life
DFW places a high priority on improving the quality of life for the community. The Airport is proud of its role as the economic engine of North Texas and of its ongoing efforts to lead a wide variety of initiatives that impact the surrounding region.
Contacts
DFW Airport welcomes your comments, questions and concerns regarding our programs.
Street Address:
Environmental Affairs Department
DFW Airport Headquarters Building
2400 Aviation Drive
DFW Airport, TX 75261
Mailing Address:
Environmental Affairs Department
DFW International Airport
P.O. Box 619428
DFW Airport, TX 75261-9428
Phone/Fax:
Environmental Affairs Department Main Phone:9729735560
Environmental Affairs Department Fax:9729735561
Sustainability Officer:9729733670
Aircraft Noise and Flight Track Reporting Line:9729733192
