Antoinette Nassopoulos-Erickson, senior partner at Foster + Partners, reveals the key trends and challenges set to shape the terminals of tomorrow.
What are the greatest challenges facing today’s airports?
Undoubtedly, the greatest challenge we face today is climate change. Aviation and airports represent 2-3% of GHG, which is rising as other sectors decarbonize more quickly. As we accelerate toward a global ambition of reaching net zero carbon, it is imperative that airports play their part and become more sustainable. As designers, we have a responsibility to convince our clients of the value associated with developing and operating airports in ways that are cognizant of a changing climate to lessen their impact on the environment and local communities. Airports should be designed to balance the economic benefits of growth, the needs of airlines and passengers, the cost of construction and the environmental impact of air travel.
