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11 3 Research Topics After conducting the literature review and stakeholder outreach, the research team identified several research gaps, which were developed into more than 50 individual research ideas. This section describes the research ideas categorized into the eight high-level themes: Sustainability, Noise, Water Quality and Availability, Air Quality and Emissions, Resiliency, Monitoring and Reporting, Natural Resources, and Emerging Technology. Additional information on each of the research ideas presented below (such as priority rank, related research titles and IdeaHub tags) can be found in the accompanying Research Idea Database (Excel file Attachment A). The research ideas are listed by priority within each high-level theme below. The themes in turn are listed in order with those that have the greatest number of research ideas first, followed by themes with fewer research ideas. 3.1 Sustainability Sustainability related topics have been of great interest to the airport industry over the last several years, and ACRP has conducted significant research in this area (funding more than 20 sustainability related projects). At a high level, sustainability entails balancing the three traditional components (environment, economy, and society) so that one is not prioritized at the expense of the other two. Airports have adapted this definition to better accommodate their industry, by adding a fourth component, operational efficiency. Many airports have integrated this definition, or the EONS model (Economic vitality, Operational efficiency, Natural resource conservation, and Social responsibility) into their master planning processes or developed stand-alone sustainability management plans (SMPs). Funding from the FAA helped expand the implementation of these programs through their SMP Pilot Program. Airports are also interested in sustainability topics due to financial or natural resource constraints, expectations from their community, leadership and stakeholders, or regulatory requirements. Airports that have made significant strides in developing sustainability initiatives often seek to continuously improve their performance, and look to other industries for inspiration and lessons learned. Airports that are just beginning their sustainability journey often look to ACRP reports for guidance and rely on these products being up to date with relevant information. Sustainability management is a dynamic field, constantly evolving and changing as new technologies, methodologies, rating systems and best practices are discovered. This theme encompasses a broad range of research ideas, although most sustainability topics contained in this roadmap are focused more on environmental and social components. Topics include evaluating sustainability rating and certification systems, preparing for fleet electrification, the pursuit of net zero energy and zero waste goals, employee wellness and onboarding guides, enhancing collaboration between airports and airlines on sustainability efforts Figure 1: Airport sustainability is defined as Economic Vitality, Operational Efficiency, Natural Resource Conservation, and Social Responsibility, otherwise known as the EONS model.
12 and addressing alternative modes of transportation. Sustainability is anticipated to remain an important topic over the course of the roadmap. Specific research topics include: ⢠Roadmap to Achieve Zero Waste at Airports (Idea Rank: 13) â Along with zero energy and zero carbon emissions, zero waste is a concept that has been gaining interest within the airport environmental community. There have been a number of ACRP and FAA documents in recent years developed to assist airports in reducing waste from construction, operations and in terminals. However, recycling has become more challenging and less economically feasible recently due to Chinaâs new National Sword Policy, which means that China no longer accepts recycled materials from the U.S. due to contamination issues. As a result, the imperative to reduce waste at the source has grown. Airports have worked to reduce waste and increase recycling for years, but additional information on how airports can achieve zero waste is needed, particularly through composting of organic waste, reducing waste through smarter procurement, and working with tenants and concessionaires to reduce their waste as well. The objective of this research is to develop a guidebook and a methodology or process for airports to develop a roadmap to achieve zero waste. The roadmap should outline what projects or enabling projects airports can take in a phased approach. ⢠Waste Management Communications throughout the Airport System (Idea Rank: 16) - Developing a comprehensive communications system for effectively implementing waste management systems on the ground for tenants of the airport (i.e., those stakeholders operating at the airport beyond the direct control of the airport operator) has emerged as a need for airports as they try to manage waste streams. Sorting, composting, and diverting waste to the proper channels throughout the operational chain is increasingly important as airports are reporting waste in annual sustainability reports and setting goals in SMPs. A need has been expressed for effective ways to communicate waste management to the 'boots on the ground' level to execute waste management plans developed by airport environmental staff. The objective is to build off Synthesis 92 to develop training and communications materials and best practices for waste management systems and develop a comprehensive strategy through the implementation of a pilot program at an airport. ⢠Guidebook for Selecting Sustainable Materials (Idea Rank: 16 tie) â Research is needed to develop a comprehensive resource for architects, interior designers, engineers, builders, and airport operators to help them in selection of sustainable materials for new construction or renovation of existing facilities, with an emphasis on how to calculate embedded GHG emissions. The research will also examine and evaluate tracking technologies and life-cycle cost accounting for materials. The objective of this research is to create a comprehensive resource for selecting new construction/renovation materials for airport facilities, including utilization of tracking technology for materials and evaluation of embedded energy and GHGs of various materials. ⢠Guidebook for Implementing Public Electric Vehicle Charging at Airports (Idea Rank: 16 tie) â As consumer and industry adoption of electric vehicles increases, guidance on charging infrastructure requirements is needed. Research will provide guidance on topics including:
13 station siting, codes and standards, costs and benefits, pricing electricity use, payment systems, future-proofing investments, ADA requirements, signage, and incorporation with airport emission goals and airport master plan. This project should also include information on regulatory considerations such as cooperative charging stations and revenue diversion. The research may also examine EV charging infrastructure at off-airport parking facilities to assess impacts to airports EV charging plans. The objective is to produce an ACRP guidebook and associated tools to help airports plan and implement EV charging stations. ⢠The Costs and Benefits of Designing for Net Zero Energy (Idea Rank: 22) - Some airports are setting goals for new facilities to be "net zero" energy - that is, the average annual energy consumption for the building to operate is equal to the amount of energy produced on site (or in some definitions, renewable energy produced offsite but 'owned' by the airport). This is an emerging practice area and there are few examples in the airport industry to look to for best practices and cost estimates. Organizations like the International Living Futures Institute have developed certification standards for "net zero" energy buildings and overall net zero buildings (Living Building Challenge), but the majority of projects seem to be smaller commercial /office buildings and residential, rather than large infrastructure facilities like airports. This research project would look to examples in other industries and facilities that have similar characteristics to airport buildings and provide an overview of the level of effort, design techniques, trade- offs, cost benefit analysis required to achieve net zero energy. The objective of this research is to determine best practices and cost estimates for airport facilities to achieve net zero energy, including an overview of the level of effort, design techniques, trade-offs, and cost benefit analysis. ⢠Access for Active Modes of Transportation (Idea Rank: 27) - Encouragement of alternative forms of transportation (other than personal vehicles) to, from, and within the airport is important in order to minimize traffic and reduce emissions. While some airports are located within walking distance of office parks and public transit infrastructure, most airports cannot be accessed by pedestrians and bicyclists. The advent of new technologies like e-scooters and e- bikes is proving very popular in cities and can extend threshold travel distances for these modes to/from and within airports. Guidance is needed for airports to consider these modes in their master planning efforts, and potential strategies to collaborate with adjacent communities to benefit from these new modes of transportation. The objective of this research is to provide guidance for airports in integrating active modes of transportation to and from the airport into the master planning process. ⢠Employee Onboarding Environmental Guidebook (Idea Rank: 31) - Airport environmental issues can be complex, specific to the airport, and costly if not managed properly. It is therefore important for airport employees, particularly new employees or those without an environmental technical background, to be knowledgeable on the requirements and environmental programs at the airport. Airport environmental achievement and sustainability is an organization-wide effort, especially for things like waste management. Providing guidance to employees as soon as they are hired will allow communication of environmental policies in a more efficient manner and will give current employees a resource to refresh. Research is needed to develop guidance for new employee onboarding with respect to environmental
14 laws, regulations, and programs at the airport. The objective pf this research is to develop an employee onboarding guidebook for environmental procedures and policies at an airport. ⢠Passenger Behavior and Sustainability (Idea Rank: 39) - Airports have expressed interest in the development of a tool for assessing passenger behavior in relation to supporting sustainable goods and services. A better understanding of customer spending habits as they relate sustainable goods and services could lead to more (or different types of) sustainable products being offered on site. This would enhance airport revenue and provide motivation for tenants and concessionaires to offer more sustainable items in the terminal. The objective of this research is to provide a resource to airports to understand the economic behavior of passengers in relation to sustainable goods and services offered at the airport. ⢠Methods for Accelerating the Deployment and Offsetting the Costs of Sustainable Aviation Jet Fuels (Idea Rank: 40) - The aviation industry has successfully deployed Sustainable Aviation Jet Fuels (SAJFs) on a number of commercial flights over the past several years, and several production pathways have been approved, with more expected in the near future. While the economics are not currently favorable for the large-scale production of SAJF, there is a strong desire on the part of airlines, airports, and manufacturers to continue working towards commercial scale production and deployment of these fuels in order to meeting ambitious industry goals of carbon emission reductions. This is especially important in coming years as ICAO's Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) goes into effect. Some airports have recently developed partnerships with stakeholders to investigate innovative approaches to accelerating deployment of these fuels on site. Research is needed to assess the effectiveness of public-private partnership models or other innovative approaches to achieve the goal of providing SAJFs to airlines on site. This research can investigate industry examples, such as the Port of Seattle's recent project with the Rocky Mountain Institute as well as partnerships from other industries that may contain relevant lessons learned that could be applied at airports. The objective is to identify and assess methods for accelerating the deployment of SAJFs on site and offsetting their costs. ⢠Using the Procurement and Contracting Process to Advance Environmental and Sustainability Goals (Idea Rank: 42) - As reported in ACRP Synthesis 42, airports are large consumers of goods and services, and have the opportunity to enable or require sustainability performance improvements through the contracting process. There are many types of airport contracts, and each can be leveraged by airports to improve compliance with regulations, facilitate innovative economic, environmental, and social sustainability initiatives, and improve overall performance. The airport contract types that provide the most opportunity to make a difference to an airports sustainability performance include design and construction contracts, concessions and tenant lease agreements, and janitorial service contracts. Examples of contract and procurement language was included in this prior report. This synthesis was developed in 2011- 2012. It reported that the practice of using the contracting and procurement processes to require and enforce sustainable practices was in the early stages at that time. As a result, this topic warrants an update to see what new and improved practices have evolved since the publication of that synthesis. For example, more airports are looking to enhance their diversity,
15 inclusion, and other social sustainability initiatives, which was not as much of a focus several years ago. The objective of this project is to update Synthesis 42 with more examples and case studies of airport contracts and procurement practices to drive sustainability performance, with the additional consideration of inclusion, diversity and other social initiatives addressed in the contracting/procurement process. ⢠Net Zero Greenfield versus Net Zero Brownfield â What Really is Possible? (Idea Rank: 44) - Advances in technology and materials has allowed what was once considered impossible to be possible - the development of "net zero energy" buildings. Net Zero energy buildings consume less energy than they create on an average annual basis. Some airports, (ex. SFO) are trying to develop net zero facilities, but are starting with new construction (as opposed to retrofitting existing buildings). Research is needed to understand what is possible with technology and materials available for achieving net zero for both new buildings and existing facilities. The objective of this research is to develop guidance on the implementation and application of technology and materials available for achieving net zero energy, for both new buildings and existing facilities. This guidance should take into account state and local regulations and limitations. ⢠Employee Wellness Guidebook (Idea Rank: 48) - Employee health and wellness has traditionally been a concern for airport HR departments, but is increasingly considered as part of comprehensive airport sustainability initiatives. Airports have identified a need for an employee wellness guidebook. The intent of a guidebook would be to assist airports to implement quality of life measures for airport employees, as well as give them the ability to track progress on employee wellness goals. ⢠Identifying Interactions between Airline and Airport Sustainability Activities (Idea Rank: 52) - As national and international stakeholders, airlines have enterprise-wide sustainability programs and environmental goals. Airports have location-specific environmental and sustainability goals. While airports and airlines often work together to implement sustainability initiatives at the airport, occasionally the goals and objectives of the airport and airlines do not align. In addition, airlines often have shorter return on investment (ROI) requirements than airports for projects, which can make the economics of sustainability projects challenging to justify. As airports and airlines set more ambitious goals, for example regarding reduction in carbon emissions (becoming a carbon neutral airport or net zero facility for airports, and achieving carbon neutral growth from 2020 for the aviation industry), coordination is needed to support these entities' goals. Guidance is needed for airports and airlines to align their differing ROI requirements and planning horizons, in order to better facilitate all stakeholders sustainability goals. The objective of this research is to provide guidance on how airports and airlines can improve coordination of their sustainability activities to enable greater success in meeting respective goals. ⢠Biomimicry Design Concepts for Sustainable and Resilient Airport Facilities (Idea Rank: 54) - According to the Biomimicry Institute, biomimicry is "an approach to innovation that seeks sustainable solutions to human challenges by emulating natureâs time-tested patterns and strategies. The goal is to create products, processes, and policiesânew ways of livingâthat are
16 well-adapted to life on earth over the long haul". Essentially, biomimicry involves applying the forms and functions found in nature to improve the built environment, materials and products and design. An example of biomimicry is the Eastgate office complex built by Arup Associated in Harare, Zimbabwe. The ventilation system of the building was inspired by the structure of termite mounds. As a result, that building uses 90% less energy for cooling than conventional buildings (Biomimicry Institute). A synthesis project to highlight other examples of how this concept has been applied at airports or similar facilities and the results (from an environmental benefit and cost savings perspective) would be informative for the airport industry. The objective of this project would be to develop a collection of case studies on biomimicry- inspired designs for buildings, transportation systems, products or processes that are applicable to airports, including an assessment of the benefits of these projects compared to conventional design. The objective of this project would be to develop a collection of case studies on biomimicry-inspired designs for buildings, transportation systems, products or processes that are applicable to airports, including an assessment of the benefits of these projects compared to conventional design. 3.2 Noise Noise has historically been, and remains, a significant environmental issue for airports and their communities. Although aircraft engine and airframe technologies have gotten quieter in the past several decades, and the number of people exposed to âsignificantâ aviation noise (greater than DNL 65 dB as defined by the FAA) has decreased, the implementation of NextGen resulted in altered flight paths and created controversy and opposition. Technological advances like smartphone apps that allow community members to submit noise complaints with the touch of a button have resulted in increased complaints at some airports. Other new technologies include unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), which are anticipated to proliferate with unknown consequences for community noise annoyance. Recent research examining the health impacts of noise on communities has heightened awareness as well. Noise is anticipated to remain a significant area of interest to airport stakeholders over the course the five-year Research Roadmap. Specific research topics identified include: ⢠Assessing Community Annoyance of Noise from Unmanned Aerial Systems (Idea Rank: 27) - Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs)/Drones are quickly becoming widely used in the U.S. As companies shipping goods begin to utilize them for the delivery of products, they will become even more prevalent in day-to-day life. For UASs departing from or arriving to airports, or in operation in the airport vicinity, it is likely that community noise response to these will present a new challenge for airports and UAS operators. As UASs have different noise profiles than aircraft, research is needed to develop a methodology for measuring and understanding community annoyance associated with UASs/drones. The objective of this research is to develop a methodology for assessing community annoyance associated with noise from UASs/drones and guidance to airports for responding to community concerns about UAVs.
17 ⢠Identifying Viable Techniques for Modifying NextGen Flight Track Design to Reduce Community Noise Exposure and Annoyance (Idea Rank: 27 tie) - The implementation of NextGen and specifically Metroplex projects has resulted in widespread community opposition to flight track changes and increase noise complaints. In several instances, communities and elected officials have demanded that the FAA reverse these changes or come up with revised flight tracks to ease the noise burden on communities. Research is needed to explore options for redesigning those flight tracks to reduce noise concentrations over noise sensitive areas, while satisfying project design goals and constraints. Changes in aircraft noise exposure, fuel consumption, and air emissions would be quantified and would be compared to the pre- and post-Metroplex conditions. The objective of this research is to produce recommendations for the implementation of viable techniques for reducing community noise exposure, while maintaining the benefits of NextGen flight procedures, for FAA's consideration in flight procedure development moving forward. ⢠Best Practices for Effective Sound Insulation (Idea Rank 37) - Airports have spent millions of dollars on sound insulation programs to mitigate aircraft noise in surrounding communities. While this is often a popular program in communities, it does not necessarily "solve" noise problems. An assessment of the effectiveness of sound insulation in different types of structures and their associated uses is necessary to understand where this solution can have the greatest impact and benefit to the community. Further, an assessment of sound insulation on a geographic level to identify whether or not certain methods of reducing indoor noise levels are more effective in different climates. Understanding the most effective ways to use sound insulation on a structural and geographic level will allow airports to better allocate funding and develop their noise strategy with a more targeted and effective approach. The objective of this research is to assess how effective sound insulation is at reducing indoor noise levels in terms of structural differences, as well as in the context of different geographic locations and changing climates. ⢠Best Practices for Stakeholder Engagement and Assessing and Reporting on Multiple Noise Metrics (Idea Rank 42) - With the results of the FAA's noise annoyance survey pending release, airports will need guidance on how to communicate the results to their communities. In addition, the FAA will be undertaking an analysis of different noise metrics. The potential policy impacts of these projects to airports may be significant. Research on how these studies will affect airports and how they may affect airport noise management will be needed. Guidelines for best practices in stakeholder engagement, noise assessment, and more will be helpful to airports as they navigate these findings. The objective of this research is to offer a guidebook of best practices for handling potential policy changes or research findings from the FAA's 20 Airports Survey. ⢠Assessing Community Response to Helicopter Noise (Idea Rank: 45) - Airports located near heliports, and those with helicopter operations occurring on site often receive noise complaints from the community about these operations in addition to fixed-wing aircraft. Particularly in urban areas, many helicopter operations are associated with law enforcement and / or medical transport. Airports may not have the ability to track all these operations despite receiving noise complaints. Further research to identify the differences between human annoyance and
18 community responses to helicopter noise versus fixed-wing aircraft noise and associated policy impacts would be useful to airports and local planners. ACRP Report 181, Assessing Community Annoyance of Helicopter Noise concluded that additional research is needed to determine community response to helicopter noise versus fixed-wing aircraft. The objective of this research is to conduct additional research on assessing community response to helicopter noise, and ascertain the differences in human annoyance and community response between helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. ⢠Non-auditory Health Effects of Aircraft Noise (Idea Rank: 46) - Research has been published on non-auditory health effects of aircraft noise to determine whether there is definitive dose- response relationship for cardiac issues and other potential health impacts on humans. The epidemiological studies are often not well understood by either the public or the airport community, which can cause confusion over the correlation vs. causation of noise and health impacts. A summary and consolidation of this type of research, and guidance on how to communicate the results to a non-technical general audience would be beneficial to airports. The objective of this research is to survey and summarize current scientific literature on health impacts of aviation noise, and provide guidance to airports on how to communicate the results to the public. ⢠Commercial Space Transportation Noise Model Validation (Idea Rank: 51) - Airports and space facilities that wish to support the growing demand for commercial space operations must seek launch site operator licenses from the FAA. As these facilities are developed, environmental analysis will need to be conducted, including quantifying the noise from space operations. Accurate predictions of the noise exposure from space operations require a noise model that has been validated over a range of vehicle types, operations, and atmospheric conditions. ACRP Project 02-66 developed a rocket noise model compatible with FAAâs Aviation Environmental Design Tool (AEDT) and ACRP Project 02-81 (ongoing) is building a high-fidelity dataset of space operations noise measurements. Additional research is needed to leverage the data collected from ACRP 02-81âs measurement campaign and validate the noise model developed under ACRP 02-66 to increase confidence in the accuracy of modeling of the noise generated by commercial space operations. The objectives of this research are to design and conduct an evaluation and validation of the space operations noise model developed under ACRP 02-66 (Report 183) and to recommend future research efforts to improve model accuracy using the community noise measurement database collected under ACRP 02 81. ⢠Assessing Community Annoyance of Low-level Sonic Boom Noise (Idea Rank: 53) - Aircraft manufacturers are already building and testing aircraft that produce low-level sonic booms. When these aircraft begin to operate at airports, airports will need guidance to help them understand the dose-response relationship for this type of aircraft noise. This project would serve to provide guidance to airports, in conjunction with guidance released by the FAA or other entities, in assessing and reporting this noise as well as handling the community annoyance associated with it. The objective of this research is to develop a method for assessing the dose-response relationship and community annoyance associated with noise from low-level sonic boom noise.
19 3.3 Air Quality and Emissions Air pollutant emissions and associated impacts from aviation-related sources continues to be an important issue facing commercial and general aviation airports in the United States. Despite fuel efficiency improvements in both aircraft and ground vehicle fleets, the projected future growth in domestic and international aviation means that airports and airlines will need to continue to address their emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs). In the near term, research can provide airports with the latest best practices and methodologies to compile emissions inventories as well as guidance on how to ensure their emissions are accounted for in state implementation plans (which will be important particularly for areas newly designated as in ânon- attainmentâ for certain pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act). Specific Air Quality and Emissions research topics identified include: ⢠Guidebook for Best Practices in Utilizing FAA's AEDT for Modeling and Reporting Noise and Air Quality Emissions from Aircraft Operations (Idea Rank: 3) - Airports have expressed the need for better guidance to understand how the FAA's AEDT works in modeling noise and air quality emissions, as well as how to best utilize it for modeling and reporting. Further, the transition from separate models for noise and air quality, the Integrated Noise Model (INM) and Emissions and Dispersion Modeling System (EDMS), respectively, presents a challenge for airports to explain differences in emissions or noise effects modeled year over year to the public. Guidance materials on FAA's AEDT, with an emphasis in how to explain the results and model differences to stakeholders is needed. The objective is develop a guidebook and accompanying training tools for airports to effectively utilize FAA's AEDT model for noise and air quality modeling, reporting, documentation and communicating the results to the public. ⢠Evaluation of Airport Emissions within State Implementation Plans (Idea Rank: 6) â Based on the latest available science, the EPA regularly updates its national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for certain pollutants (called criteria pollutants). The agency categorizes all areas of the country as in attainment or non-attainment zones for each of the NAAQS (areas that were in non-attainment but have subsequently met the standards are considered to be in a âmaintenanceâ area). Several airports are currently in a maintenance or non-attainment area for one of the covered pollutants, and others may be brought into non-attainment based on future NAAQS. These airports must ensure that their emissions (from operations and construction) are addressed in their state implementation plan. In addition, the costs and operational impacts of moving from a less to a more stringent designation are not well understood (for example, moving from moderate to severe non-attainment for ozone). The ACRP Report 84: Evaluation of Airport Emissions within State Implementation Plans was published in 2013, but the industry has expressed a need for an update to this guidance according to current and evolving best practices. The objective of this research is to update ACRP guidance on how airports can ensure their emissions are incorporated into their states' implementation plans with current best practices. ⢠Guidebook for Implementing Ground Support Equipment Electrification at Airports (Idea Rank: 11) â Airlines and fixed-base operators are transitioning towards electric ground support equipment, and some states and local governments have started to encourage or mandate the
20 use of electric GSEs. Airports therefore need to be prepared to respond to the demand for increased electrification of GSEs. Specifically, airports need to plan for infrastructure upgrades, increased electricity demand, a shift in demand for traditional/fossil fuel and corresponding changes in maintenance activities. Airports will also need to be able to evaluate the emissions benefits and impacts of an expanded eGSE fleets, for example how to calculate emissions intensity per hour of eGSE use as compared to conventional equipment (which will change based on the emissions factor of their regionâs fuel mix). Airports would benefit from guidance on these aspects to be prepared to support their tenants. The objective of this research is to prepare a guidebook to inform airports of the planning and infrastructure needs, and how to estimate the emissions benefits of a transition to an electric GSE fleet. ⢠Guidebook on Preparing Airport Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventories (Idea Rank: 11 tie) - ACRP Report 11, âGuidebook on Preparing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventoriesâ has provided excellent guidance to airports over the last decade. However, best practices for preparing GHG emissions inventories have evolved since its publication in 2009. As a result, there is a need to update this guidance with most recent best practices and to synthesize resources from other sectors on this topic. The objective of this idea is to update ACRP Report 11 based on current industry best practices and international guidance. ⢠Reducing Emissions from Airport Landside Access Modes of Transportation (Idea Rank: 14) - Passenger traffic to and from airports is often the largest landside source of emissions at an airport. Airports have taken steps to address this issue from installation of cell phone lots, enhanced parking payment systems, off-site parking to reduce congestion, alternatively fueled airport shuttles, and improved public transit connectivity. However, tools to quantify the project costs and the emission benefits of such projects may not be readily available to the airport, and the infrastructure and policy requirements of these projects may not be readily apparent. The objective of this project is to develop tools that can be used to quantify the emission benefits of various landside improvement projects, estimate costs of construction, and presents case studies of airports that have implemented such systems and lessons learned from these projects. These will help other airports select landside enhancement projects and aid in planning for and executing these projects. ⢠Ultrafine Particle Synthesis (Idea Rank: 49) - Airport and aircraft activities contribute to ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) emissions, and there is an increasing concern about UFP concentrations around airports as they are linked to adverse health effects. Many airports do not fully understand their sources of UFP emissions, how they disperse around the airport and their effects on the neighboring population. This information is necessary to understand airport-generated and ambient UFP concentrations, and how airports can minimize UFPs. The synthesis project would first review past and on-going studies on the following topics: (1) Monitoring studies like source apportionment for UFP emissions (focusing on aircraft, airport airside and airport landside sources); (2) past and on-going measurement campaigns of UFP in and around airports around the world; (3) human health impacts of population exposure to UFP (4) improvements in modeling/emissions estimation (e.g., can we provide a âpatch or updateâ to AEDT). In addition, the project could include interviews with airports and researchers, as well as review the published literature, to identify gaps in our understanding of airport-related UFPs
21 in order to direct future research efforts and initiatives. The interviews could identify communication strategies that researchers and airports can adopt to convey results of research to the public. ⢠Calculating Emissions Benefits of Using Airport Shuttles for Employee Commuting (Idea Rank: 50) â Some airports have explored the use of airport-owned shuttle buses to provide additional airport employee commuting options - particularly during non-peak hours when the shuttle buses would otherwise be running infrequently or idling. In addition to providing an employee benefit, this may have air quality benefits by reducing air emissions from single passenger vehicle traffic. Research is needed to examine the potential benefits to these types of programs, and circumstances under which the FAA would permit the use of federally funded buses for this dual purpose. The objective of this project is to conduct a survey of airport practices to understand where the use of airport-owned shuttles are being used for employee commuting, and what the associated air quality benefits are from this service. This could be either a research project or a synthesis. 3.4 Resiliency Resiliency is a broad concept that encompasses many factors relating to an airportâs ability to recover from shocks and continue operations regardless of the circumstances. System disruptions can include natural and human-made disasters (such as extreme weather or terrorist acts), as well as short-term disruptions (power outages). The ability to manage chronic or long- term stressors is also part of resiliency (for example the ability to hire and retain capable staff). Resiliency can refer to infrastructure and physical assets as well as to business processes, supply chains, management, and human resources. Given the focus of this roadmap, the resiliency research ideas presented in this section primarily deal with environmental components of resiliency such as climate change and extreme weather (though these are just two challenges that airports face, which will continue to pose significant risks in the future). For example, airports on both coasts must consider the risks to their infrastructure posed by sea level rise and storm surges. In addition, all airports have to consider changing precipitation patterns (type, intensity, and frequency), greater temperature swings, droughts, flooding, and other extreme weather. Infrastructure that was designed to withstand a 100-year storm using historical data may now be exposed a similar level of extreme weather more frequently, and as a result, may not be equipped to withstand changing conditions and stressors. Airports need to assess their resiliency and develop plans to ensure their operations, infrastructure, and organizations are resilient to many types of challenges. There have been a few ACRP research projects on this topic in recent years, and in the absence of federal policy guidance, airports will likely continue to look to ACRP for guidance on how to adapt to changing conditions and mitigate their risks. Specific research topics are as follows: ⢠Custom Climate Change Adaptation Tool (Idea Rank: 4) - Although ACRP previously published the Airport Climate Risk Operational Screening (ACROS) tool, there is a need for a more customizable tool that uses updated data and methods to characterize airport-specific, asset-level climate change hazards and their associated financial impacts. ACROS utilizes a
22 single climate scenario from low-resolution global climate models to estimate climate impacts for groups of assets in the general location of an airport. The use of high-resolution (âdownscaledâ) climate models and airport-specific data would allow for a detailed characterization of asset-specific climate impacts. Incorporation of multiple climate scenarios would help airports to understand the full range of potential outcomes and accounting for the probability of these outcomes would allow for an estimation of financial risk. The objective of this research is to develop an interactive tool to allow airports to determine asset-level impacts and the associated financial risk from future climate hazards. It would utilize high-resolution climate models to drive a probabilistic risk assessment of potential impacts under multiple climate scenarios and time-periods. The digital tool would allow airports to visualize impacts and quantify financial risk across their facilities to help prioritize action. Detailed information (e.g. the flooding extent and depth of a future extreme precipitation event) would be provided to help inform resiliency planning and design. ⢠Integrating Airport and Community Resiliency Planning (Idea Rank: 8) - The rise in severe weather events (e.g., hurricanes, tornadoes, high winds) as well as the effects of rising sea levels and changing weather patterns (e.g., periods of extended drought) have caused significant flooding and damage to widespread regions across the U.S. Airports have begun to examine what can be accomplished on airport to make airport infrastructure more resilient to the effects of such weather activity. Other modes of transportation as well as utilities and other service providers are conducting resiliency planning as well. However, airports and the other service providers are subject to the same challenges as the communities they serve. Additionally, airports and communities realize that in order to be truly resilient, a more comprehensive and integrated region-wide examination of what is required to achieve effective regional resilience. The objective of this research idea is to develop guidance for airports to engage their local communities in integrated resiliency planning. ⢠Designing Resilient Infrastructure for an Uncertain Future: When the 100 Year Storm Occurs Every 10 Years (Idea Rank: 9) - Research is needed on changing precipitation and weather patterns, and providing guidance for airports on how to develop updated design guidelines taking climate change into account. A number of airports have developed updated design guidelines with new flooding maps taken into account for example. The research could also examine how airports can justify the expense of designing infrastructure to withstand storms that are based on outdated weather information, and demonstrate they are not "over- designing" for purposes of obtaining AIP grants. The objective of this research is to provide guidance for developing airport design guidelines that consider climate change in the face of increased frequency of extreme weather events and changing weather patterns, including strategies for justifying expenses related to resilient infrastructure. ⢠Evaluation of General Aviation Airport Financial Needs Considering Regional Risks and National Categorization (Idea Rank: 14) - The FAA has categorized general aviation (GA) airports into several categories of assets, including National Assets, Regional, Local, or Basic Assets, etc. The funding formula does not necessarily take into account regional threats such as seismic activity in the Pacific northwest, and the risk those regional threats pose to the airports in the area. Regional natural disaster threats add another layer of complexity to the
23 determination of the value or role of a GA airport in the event such a disaster should occur. Research is needed to evaluate these regional risks, and to understand how the risks may affect airports in that region. Specifically, the research would examine the role of GA airports in the event a regional disaster renders other airports in the region inoperable for a time. The objective of this research idea is to develop a resource for GA airports to understand their risks from regional disaster threats and role in recovery. The guidance would also inform and educate state departments of transportation and the FAA as they update to the classification report, update their system plans and understand the financial needs of GA airports. ⢠Measuring Airport Resiliency to Natural Disasters and Other Hazards (Idea Rank: 23) - Defining and quantifying airport resiliency can be challenging, particularly with the wide variation of events that could disrupt operations and the significant differences between airports (such as size, operations, geographic location, etc.). There have been several resources developed for airports to assess their risk to climate change factors, and to integrate climate risk management into existing systems. There is no methodology to measure and track an airport's resiliency capacity over time however, to determine if adaptation measures taken to mitigate risks result in quantifiable benefits. The objective of this research idea is to develop a method to measure the resilience of an airport against a potential hazard or natural disaster. ⢠Airport Risk Assessment Tool for Future Environmental Threats (Idea Rank: 27) - Airports have expressed a need for predicting and analyzing risks resulting from climate change and other environmental threats. Strategies for preparing for future environmental or non- environmental risks associated with regional climate change, a more globalized world, as well as other potential environmental threats will allow airports to be better prepared in terms of financial resiliency and infrastructure needs for when these events do occur. Data to predict these impacts is imperfect, so a risk assessment and infrastructure development tool for airports to implement resiliency measures is a necessity. The objective of this research idea is to create a risk assessment tool for the potential impacts of future environmental threats at airports. ⢠Guidebook for the Development of Resiliency Management Plans (Idea Rank: 35) â Airports have a plethora of planning documents, including Master Plans, Sustainable Management Plans, Emergency Operations and Irregular Operations Plans, Continuity of Operations Plan, Environmental Management Plans, and Workforce Planning for example. More airports are studying their climate risks and vulnerabilities as well. All of these planning efforts are necessary and critical to operational continuity, and to ensure that airports can serve their communities regardless of the circumstances. Research is needed to develop guidance and tools to help airports create comprehensive resiliency plans that consider other (existing) planning resources. The research should include consideration of environmental risks and climate change, but the topic of resiliency goes beyond those two subjects. The project should therefore take a comprehensive approach to resiliency management. The objective of this research project is to develop a comprehensive guidebook and tools to help airports create holistic resiliency management plans. The research should be flexible and implementable by airports of all sizes, including options for developing plans to a level of detail and complexity in line with staff and budget resources.
24 3.5 Water Quality and Availability Water is a broad category within airport environmental management, and depending on the airport, water topics can comprise both water quality (for example drinking water quality, stormwater management, and pollution prevention activities from deicing) and water conservation. A number of projects and tools have been produced by ACRP over the past decade addressing both types of water issues, but these remain important for airports as new information becomes available. One example of an emerging challenge for airports is the presence of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOS/PFOA) in firefighting foam, which has led to soil and water contamination. Research is ongoing about the implications of these substances on human health and the transport fate of these substances. As more information becomes available, additional regulations are expected, and airports will need guidance to assist with compliance and communication with the public about this issue. Establishing a protocol for how to respond to drinking water contamination events has been a challenge for airports that could be addressed with ACRP assistance. Specific research ideas include: ⢠Environmental and Human Health Risks Associated with Short-Chain PFAS in AFFF (Idea Rank: 25) â As a result of research pointing to environmental and human health risks of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) used for firefighting activities, airports have expressed an interest in obtaining alternative formulations of AFFF. In addition, in response to concerns over the environmental and health impacts of PFAS in AFFF, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 included a provision directing FAA to stop requiring the use of fluorinated foam within three years (October 2021). The agency has begun research and testing of non-fluorinated alternatives. While testing continues to find an FAA- accepted alternative to fluorinated foam, manufacturers have created AFFF formulations using short-chain PFAS. Short-chain PFAS are thought to be less persistent in the environment and less bio-accumulative, but there is limited research on these compounds, and little is known about the potential risks they pose to human health and the environment. Research is needed to better understand and quantify these risks until a non-fluorinated AFFF option is commercially available and approved by the FAA. The objective of this research is to conduct a literature review to determine the current state of knowledge on the health and environmental risks of short-chain PFAS and conduct research to build upon existing knowledge. ⢠Replacing AFFF in Existing Firefighting System Components (Idea Rank: 32) â AFFF used for airport firefighting and training exercises has historically contained PFAS and PFOS), chemicals that are persistent in the environment and have potential health impacts. If airports switch to AFFF that do not contain PFAS, there may still be contamination from residual PFASs. Research is needed to understand the extent to which PFAS can bind to existing systems (e.g., hoses, storage containers, etc.). In the event that it is found that PFASs do bind to these systems, methods for eliminating residual PFASs should also be studied. Costs associated with these methods, which could include flushing the systems or full replacement, could be an element of this research. The objective of this project should be to determine whether and to what extent
25 PFASs bind to firefighting components after the PFAS-containing formulations are no longer in use, and if so to develop best practices and a guidebook for airports to address the contamination. The objective of this project is to determine whether and to what extent PFASs bind to firefighting components after the PFAS-containing formulations are no longer in use, and if so develop best practices and a guidebook for airports to address the contamination. ⢠Strategies for the Reuse of Gray- and Blackwater (Idea Rank: 32 tie) - Water conservation is a topic of interest to airports, not only in areas affected by drought but as a key sustainability practice. Increasing demands on potable water supplies require innovative water conservation strategies, such as using graywater (reusable wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, showers, or other sources that is not contaminated with human waste). Graywater can be reused for non- potable water demands, such as toilet flushing or irrigation, due to its lower level of contaminants. Blackwater is water that has been exposed to human waste (i.e. water from toilets and urinals), and is reused less often than graywater because of the treatment required. However, there are methods of treating black water so it can be used for non-potable purposes. There are some examples of airports using gray water and a few using treated black water. SFO uses treated wastewater for irrigation and toilet flushing, and the Port of Portland headquarters building has a passive filtration system to process wastewater. Utilizing reclaimed water for non-potable water uses has water conservation benefits because it replaces the use of potable water. Depending on the intended use of the reclaimed water, varying levels of treatment may be necessary prior to reuse. In addition, there are different state regulations regarding the use of reclaimed water, which will affect what an airport can do with respect to using gray or black water. Research is needed to help airports understand the possibilities for gray and black water use, treatment requirements, design and construction considerations, payback periods, regulations, etc. Case studies from airports of varying sizes and similar facilities should be incorporated. The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive guidebook for airports on the uses for reclaimed black and gray water, treatment and system requirements, process for calculating water savings and return on investment, and case studies. ⢠Guidebook for Disposal Methods for PFOS and PFOA Containing AFFF (Idea Rank: 35) â Airports surveyed as part of ACRP 173: Use and Potential Impacts of AFFF Containing PFASs at Airports (2017) identified a knowledge gap in how to dispose of AFFF concentrate properly. Specifically, with changing regulations and increased awareness of the potential environmental impacts of AFFF containing PFASs (and, in particular, PFOS-containing AFFF), airports interested in proactively making the switch to more environmentally friendly AFFF alternatives are wondering how to dispose of existing stock of PFOS or PFOA containing AFFF concentrate. Identified disposal options (e.g., return to manufacturer and incineration) may not be available or may be too costly, leaving airports to stockpile AFFF waste until more cost-effective options become available. Further research is recommended to identify viable, cost-effective disposal options. The objective of this research is to identify proven, cost-effective disposals practices for PFOS/PFOA containing AFFF.
26 ⢠Drinking Water Quality: Airport Roles and Responsibilities, Prevention, and Communication of Events (Idea Rank: 40) â Airports, airlines, other airport tenants, and government agencies all have a role to play in ensuring safe drinking water and effectively managing events when contamination occurs. Communication guidelines currently do not exist for airports dealing with government agencies and local drinking water utilities during drinking water emergencies. Airports are often notified of drinking water emergencies from waterborne disease outbreaks or microbial or chemical contaminations at the same time as the public. As major transportation hubs, with people traveling to various locations across the world, airports should be more integrated with government agencies; further, guidance on how to develop standard operating procedures for emergency water quality event notification, preventative measures, and stakeholder roles and responsibilities is needed. The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive resource for airports to understand their roles and responsibilities for managing drinking water quality; develop standard operating procedures for water quality event notification; managing table top emergency response exercises; and preventative measures. ⢠Evaluation of Existing Treatment Facilities for Processing Wastewater Impacted by PFAS (Idea Rank: 46) â Research conducted as part of ACRP 173: âUse and Potential Impacts of AFFF Containing PFASs at Airportsâ (2017), revealed that some airports use existing glycol-water and/or fuel-water separation systems for pretreatment of wastewater impacted by PFASs, prior to sending discharged foam solutions to a wastewater treatment facility. The efficacy of these systems in removing AFFF has not been studied, and it is not known whether changes to these systems could result in adequate AFFF removal. Further research is also recommended to evaluate volume criteria for disposal in local water treatment facilities. Local municipal or airport-specific water treatment plants may not be effective in processing large volumes of runoff impacted by PFASs following training, testing activities, or emergency response. The research will help airports assess the effectiveness and viability of disposing of waste-impacted by PFASs (i.e., discharged AFFF/water mixtures) using existing facilities. The objective is to develop a guidebook for how airports can use existing treatment facilities to remove AFFF from wastewater. 3.6 Monitoring and Reporting Airports are complex organizations with a significant amount of data to track, organize, analyze, and report on regarding everything from operations, safety records, and financial performance, to customer service and environmental management. As publicly owned entities, they also provide much of this information to the public and regulators on both voluntary and mandatory bases. Data is also used internally to identify problems and improve performance. Concerning environmental and sustainability related topics, airports may participate in certification programs that require certain data or need benchmarking information to help them monitor progress and implement improvements toward particular environmental goals. This theme includes topics related to the collection and dissemination of information and tools to assist airports to reach their environmental goals and obligations. Specific research topics are as follows:
27 ⢠Environmental Research Roadmap Update (Idea Rank: 2) â ACRP has invested heavily in a series of research roadmaps to identify ACRP projects. These roadmaps were initially to be updated approximately every five years. However, many of the topics in the Environmental Research Roadmap are urgent and research needs in these areas are evolving quickly (e.g., PFAS). Frequent review â even if at a relatively cursory level â would allow ACRP to keep abreast of these research needs in a timely fashion. The objective of this project is to update the Environmental Research Roadmap on an annual basis, through a one-day symposium/meeting of industry experts. ⢠Science-Based Targets for Greenhouse Gas Emissions at Airports (Idea Rank: 9) - The Science-Based Targets Initiative is a joint initiative by the Climate Disclosure Project, the UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and the World Wildlife Fund. The goal of science-based targets is for entities / organizations to set GHG emissions reduction targets in line with climate science, to achieve the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement of limiting global warming to less than 2 degrees C below pre-industrial levels. Airports have often set GHG emissions reduction goals based on an arbitrary number (for example, 10%), or what is likely achievable, as opposed to developing goals based on what is required to meet global climate goals. As more airports become interesting in aligning their climate goals with global goals and targets, research and guidance is needed to assist airports in determining their course of action. This project can develop airport-specific guidance from existing Science-Based Targets Initiative information, case studies and international airport best practices. The objective of this research idea is to develop guidance for airports, tenants and stakeholders to create science- based targets for GHG reductions. ⢠Triple Bottom Line Accounting: Evaluation of Available Tools to Price Social and Environmental Costs/Benefits of Projects (Idea Rank: 21) - The airport-specific definition of sustainability includes Economic Viability, Operational Efficiency, Natural Resource Conservation, and Social Responsibility (EONS). There is a lot of research and information available to airports on the environmental components of sustainability, as well as some on the operational and economic components, but fewer on the social aspects of social sustainability. This knowledge gap can be partially attributed to the lack of tools to understand the costs and benefits of social sustainability initiatives. During the stakeholder engagement process, there was emphasis on the need to address the social and economic aspects of sustainability. Airports are seeking guidance on how to perform triple bottom line accounting for sustainability initiatives, so that the economic and social benefits and costs are as well understood as the environmental and operational components. While there are some tools on the market to assist airports develop a holistic cost accounting for these types of initiatives, more guidance is needed particularly for airports with limited budgets. This project would focus on expanding the social responsibility component of sustainability strategy, monetizing the value of social and environmental components to communicate the true triple bottom line of a ROI assessments as well as a synthesis of available tools.
28 The objective of this idea is to develop a synthesis document describing the current state of practice on triple bottom line accounting, with a focus on social costs/benefits, and the methods and tools in practice. ⢠Library of Operational Benchmarking Metrics for Environmental Resource Management and Sustainability (Idea Rank: 23) - Operational metrics associated with airport facility / building performance can be used to improve efficiency, decrease operating costs, and reduce environmental impacts of airport facilities. A standard benchmarking methodology that normalizes for weather, location, carbon intensity of utility-supplied energy, and airport-specific use characteristics would provide a means for airports to evaluate the performance of existing facilities and assets. It would also allow airports to compare the performance of their buildings with similar airports and facilities, and plan and execute improvement projects to reduce the energy, water, waste, and GHG emissions associated with those facilities and assets. The EPA's Energy Star Portfolio Manager is a publicly available tool that could be used to benchmark energy use for airport facilities, but the database does not yet contain enough airport-specific information to serve as a useful benchmark. One component of this project could be to obtain energy data from a set of volunteer airports and enter it into the Portfolio Manager system. This research could also identify if there are other benchmarking programs for resources such as water use that could be enhanced specifically for airports. The objective of this research is to obtain building and facility data for target issues such as energy and water use, for the development of airport-specific environmental resource benchmarks. ⢠Guidebook on Environmental and Sustainability Rating Systems and Certifications (Idea Rank: 32) - Motivated by a desire to minimize their impacts to surrounding communities and conserve resources, airports have been interested in sustainability and sustainable management for over a decade. Aided by the availability of grants from the FAA to develop sustainable management/master plans, and community expectations, the number of airports that have developed formal SMPs or implemented sustainability initiatives has increased over time. These activities often occur in parallel to more traditional environmental management. Airports often voluntarily seek or in some cases are required by state / local regulations to follow certain standards or achieve certification when implementing environmental management and sustainability plans. A number of certification programs, standards, and systems are available that airports can use to demonstrate commitment to sustainability and proactive management of their environmental impacts. These programs provide an objective, third party recognition that the airport meets certain standards. Such programs include, but are not limited to: the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program, the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards ISO14001 and 50001, the ISI Envision rating system, Parksmart, Sustainable Sites Initiative, and the Carbon Disclosure System. Each of these systems and programs have a different focus, pathways to achievement, verification and certification requirements. There is a need for a comprehensive resource that describes the ranges of programs and provides guidance for airports in selecting the most beneficial or appropriate system for a given
29 project/program, and best practices for implementation. The objective of this research idea is to produce a guidance document or a synthesis report that presents airports with available options for various environmental and sustainability certification and accreditation programs. The guidance could include information regarding each system and the types of projects, processes and phases of projects, which can be certified under that program, as well as guidance on how to select and apply the appropriate program for the airport. 3.7 Natural Resources Natural resource management is both an environmental issue as well as an important safety issue encompassing a variety of topics including natural resources available on airport land as well as wildlife. Wildlife, especially the threat of bird strikes, continues to pose a safety threat that airports seek to address utilizing emerging and existing technology to better track and prepare for this. Additionally, regulations associated with wildlife, specifically the Threatened and Endangered Species Act, present regulatory challenges in terms of the classification of airport land as critical habitat. Ensuring best practices in dealing with wildlife, flora, and fauna that have the potential to cause airspace obstruction issues is a research need for airports. Specific Natural Resources research topics identified include: ⢠Evaluation of Wildlife Hazard Management Plan Outcomes (Idea Rank: 7) - Nationally, the effectiveness of implemented airport Wildlife Hazard Management Plans (WHMPs) has not been systematically evaluated. This proposed research will seek to determine if airport WHMPs, and their implementation, successfully meet the wildlife management (and conservation) expectations and goals of the sponsoring airports and airport users. Potential lines of inquiry and related products could include: (1) are airport WHMPs being fully and properly implemented; (2) are implemented WHMPs meeting the expectations of sponsoring airports; (3) if expectations are not being met, what are the deficiencies, and are there any national/regional patterns or issues; (4) if deficiencies are found, what are the remedies; (5) how can the WHMP planning process, or its implementation, be made more timely and cost- effective; and (6) are the safety improvement expectations of WHMPs being met. A secondary objective of this research is to examine possible conflicts between WHMPs and wildlife conservation management permits. In some cases, the requirements may be conflicting. For example, an airport WHMP may require a certain grass height, but certain protected species may need longer grass for nesting. Guidance on best practices for collaboration between FAA, airport, and state/local agencies would also be useful. The objective of this research is to provide guidance regarding airport wildlife management that is based upon a holistic review of the goals/objectives of both federal and state regulators of safeguarding flight operations as well as regulators who are charged with safeguarding wildlife and the environment. ⢠Airport Tree Removal Best Practices (Idea Rank: 16) - Airports that remove trees due to possible airspace obstruction issues may be obligated to undertake environmental reviews. Guidance is needed on best management practices in the evaluation and removal of trees to
30 minimize the delays with associated environmental reviews. The objective of this research project is to develop a synthesis of current practices and case studies on airport tree removal. ⢠Guidebook on Managing Critical Habitat for Threatened or Endangered Species (Idea Rank: 20) - The decline of species worldwide due to habitat encroachment and climate change (among other factors) is likely to result in more designations of threatened and endangered species, which means additional areas designated as critical habitat. The safety and operational requirements of airports are not necessarily well understood by regulatory agencies responsible for implementing the Threatened and Endangered Species Act and state level equivalents. Guidance and materials to help airports communicate these considerations to regulators would be useful. Likewise, airports that are determined to have critical habitat on site will need information and best practices for managing these areas. The objective of this research is to develop a guidebook and tools for airports to educate regulators unfamiliar with the airport environment and FAA regulations, and to prepare for designation as a critical habitat for a threatened or endangered species. ⢠Using NEXRAD Weather Surveillance Network to Forecast Movements of Migratory Birds Impacting Safety at Airports (Idea Rank: 26) - More than 14,000 wildlife strikes were reported to the FAA in 2017. Globally, wildlife strikes have killed more than 287 people and destroyed over 263 aircraft from 1988 through November 2018 (Dolbeer and Begier. 2019). To warn pilots of potential wildlife hazards, airports often include generic language in the Automated Terminal Information System (ATIS) or Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) that does not provide useful or actionable information. Commonly these messages state, "use caution birds in the vicinity" and are not based on specifically observed or forecasted information. Some airports have integrated avian radar systems into their operations to detect local movements of birds; however, these systems are costly and have limitations making them impractical for the majority of airports. The existing infrastructure provided through the U.S. weather surveillance radar network (NEXRAD), combined with recent advances in machine learning and computational power make it possible to study avian movements at large spatial and long temporal scales. Several studies have characterized bird migration with this sensor network and have related these characterizations to other data, such as weather and climatic patterns and artificial light pollution. Results from these research projects have been used to develop tools to track bird migration in near real-time (http://birdcast.info/live-migration-maps/). These findings have yet to be related to wildlife hazards at airports but could provide useful information to pilots, air traffic controllers, and airports. The objective is to utilize existing research and tools for tracking and predicting bird migration patterns and develop methodologies for communication that information throughout the airport operations system to prevent safety hazards. 3.8 Emerging Technology Airport facilities are built to last decades, whereas the pace of technological change is much faster. Even where environmental challenges faced by airports have not changed significantly in the past several decades (e.g. noise, air quality, waste and stormwater management), the tools
31 and technologies used to manage these environmental issues have evolved. New technologies affect all areas of an airportâs operation and business, and as a result, this theme appears on other research roadmaps as well. Airports need to keep pace with new technologies and software, but this is difficult due to limited budgets and staff time. Research is needed to help airports understand new and potentially disruptive technologies and services and to provide guidance on how these can be used to improve airport operations, increase efficiency, and reduce environmental impacts. Examples include improved sensing of wildlife hazards, increased automation of buildings to reduce energy use, and use of sensors and software to improve environmental monitoring. Specific research topics are as follows: ⢠Advancing Building Automation and Energy Management Systems (Idea Rank: 1) - Software platforms have been developed to enable the tracking, analysis and reporting of energy managements systems as well as building asset performance and maintenance. The information captured in such platforms is capable of automatically developing work orders, procurement requests, human resource information such as time and attendance, and financial accounting data. Such software platforms are often procured as part of either an asset renewal or new capital asset program. There are two unmet needs in this issue area, which research can help resolve. The first is the identification of the cost of integrating these systems into the existing software platforms it is intended to integrate with in order to realize the return on investment potential of the new software. Secondly, new software platforms are capable of replacing legacy systems in other areas of specialization at an airport. However, they also require the redevelopment of existing workflow processes and the training of airport staff in departments that will be making use of these new systems. This effort requires significant activity levels of many airport departments. Existing priorities of other work groups often of a higher priority to the airport, which prohibits the integration of and use of the new software platforms. No guidance currently exists on how to identify an effective approach to integrate such new technology with existing legacy software platforms as well as workflow processes. These problems are anticipated to increase as new technologies are developed, as well as through the growth in equipping all systems (and personnel) with sensors, in order to capture comprehensive data across virtually all of the assets and workflow processes of the airport environment. The objective of this research is to develop a guidebook of best practices that have been used to integrate new software platforms into both legacy software systems and existing workflow processes of the airport department activities they are intended to support. ⢠Utilizing Smart Buildings and Emerging Technologies to Build a Comprehensive Monitoring and Reporting System for Environmental Management (Idea Rank: 5) - Smart building technologies (automation, Internet of Things, use of sensor networks, etc.) present an opportunity for cost-efficient and holistic sustainable management of facilities. Technologies exist that allow for more accurate monitoring of items like energy, air quality and water, as well as impacts from extreme weather and other climate change impacts. The pace of technological development is rapid, and new capabilities are available for enhanced monitoring and management, but it can be difficult for airports to learn about how these technologies can be
32 used at their facilities. This project would survey current and emerging technologies that are in use or could be used to enhance environmental and sustainable management at airports. The objective is develop a synthesis report of monitoring and reporting technology available to airports for creating a comprehensive environmental reporting system on site. ⢠Improving Monitoring, Reporting, and Communication Capabilities for Wildlife Hazards throughout Airport Operations (Idea Rank: 37) - Airports have identified a need for research and guidance on available (and emerging) technology, tools, and practices to more effectively sense wildlife risk on and around the airport in order to communicate it to the airport, air traffic control tower, and airborne crew. Emerging artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technology provides the potential for an integrated, 'smart' system at airports to communicate this information more quickly and efficiently throughout the operational system. The objective of this research is to provide information to airports in terms of how to utilize emerging technologies for better notification, communication, and reporting regarding wildlife hazards throughout the airport operational system. 3.9 Conclusion Numerous resources were reviewed during the initial phase of developing the Research Roadmap, including consultation with stakeholders and the literature review. Although some of the topics identified are addressed in prior publications, they are included here if the research team or stakeholders identified a need for an update or additional information on that topic has become available. Sources and documents from the trade associations and FAA served as references for ensuring that research ideas generated as part of this project are not duplicative and achieve alignment with industry priorities. The goal of this project was to develop a five-year prioritized Research Roadmap that identifies gaps in knowledge and research ideas in the area of airport environmental management. The intent is for the individual research ideas included in on the roadmap to serve as starting points for development into complete problem statements by industry practitioners. Based on this objective, recommendations for this Research Roadmap are as follows: 1) The Research Roadmap should be used to inform the AOC of industry needs as they consider submitted problem statements for research funding over the next three to five years; and 2) ACRP should consider updating the Research Roadmap periodically. This may include identifying which ideas have been selected for funding, adding new ideas to address new challenges, revise or remove research ideas that are no longer relevant or necessary. The entire roadmap should be updated every 5 years.
