Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), owned and operated by Aerostar Airport Holdings, LLC, recently received the prestigious Airports Going Green AwardTM for Outstanding Sustainability Program. This accolade highlights the cutting-edge sustainability projects and commitment to a resilient, sustainable future that distinguish SJU as a leader in the industry, including their first Airport Sustainability Plan. The award winners were honored at a luncheon in November, where Jaime Pabon, Sustainability Director at Aerostar/SJU Airport, accepted the award.
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, located in Isla Verde, Carolina, near San Juan, is Puerto Rico's main air travel hub, processing more than 10 million passengers annually. As the first commercial airport in the United States operated by a private company, SJU is a critical connection point to the continental United States and beyond.
VHB supported this sustainability achievement as a subconsultant to AVCON PR Services, PSC on developing the San Juan Airport Sustainability Plan, formally known as the SJU Sustainability Program. The airport’s sustainability initiatives are a benchmark for climate resilience and environmental stewardship in the aviation sector.
VHB provided a comprehensive climate vulnerability assessment as part of the plan. This thorough analysis pinpointed SJU's top climate threats, including drought, tropical cyclones, tsunamis, saltwater intrusion, sea level rise, storm surge, and cloudbursts. The resulting report evaluated potential impacts on airport operations and services and outlined a phased plan to implement mitigation strategies. VHB's role was celebrated at the award event, with Kate Lindekugel representing the company and joining the Aerostar team in marking this milestone.
"This award is a testament to the collaboration between Aerostar, AVCON, and VHB, underscoring our shared commitment to sustainability," said Chuck Smith, PWS, Environmental Director at VHB. "VHB identified climate vulnerabilities and proposed mitigation strategies that helped advance SJU's sustainability goals and highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship within the aviation industry."
The SJU Sustainability Program includes various initiatives that demonstrate the airport's dedication to sustainable practices. Projects like the Roadmap to Net Zero, Bee Management Project, and Airport Carbon Accreditation collectively enhance environmental stewardship while benefiting the local economy and community.
VHB's assessment also addressed the direct impacts on the airport and the wider social and community implications. The aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017 highlighted SJU's vital role in preserving community lifelines, including food security, emergency management operations, and regional stability. Understanding these vulnerabilities was key to creating a plan supporting airport operation and the broader community.
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