Schiphol largest producer of algae
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s ambition is to become the largest producer of algae in Europe. A total of 5 hectares of basins will be ready in the spring of 2011 producing 150 tons of dry algae.
Serious about sustainability
The expansion of algae cultivation will propel Amsterdam Airport Schiphol into becoming the largest algae producer in Europe.
Expansion of algae production is important if Schiphol wants to remain a sustainable airport. In pools where algae are cultivated, glycol is processed with meltwater. Glycol is used to keep moving parts of aircraft free of ice. Since an excess of glycol in surface water may cause the death of fish, meltwater has been sent to water treatment plants in recent years. Furthermore, it is financially more attractive to use meltwater to produce algae.
Cattle fodder and biofuel
Algae produced by the airport could be used for animal feed since it contains a lot of protein. Superior quality algae could be used as raw material for biofuel.
This innovative method to cope with waste material in a sustainable way fits into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s ambition to become the most innovative and sustainable airport. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is already involved in numerous sustainable initiatives such theGROUNDS (a knowledge centre to facilitate institutions to develop innovative applications for sustainable aviation).
Sustainable region
Schiphol is one example of many sustainable initiatives in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area. Government promotes sustainability by providing subsidies for electric cars and renewable projects for the development of the port of Amsterdam.
Related Topics
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol launches theGROUNDS
Schiphol voted best western European airport
Amsterdam supports electric transport
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol voted Eco-best in Europe
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