LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has launched the Van Nuys Airport (VNY) Green Tenant Program, a new effort to support tenants in adopting more sustainable practices across airport operations. The first of its kind program encourages voluntary participation in energy and water conservation, electrification, waste management, and other environmentally responsible activities. It also will provide tenants with practical tools, educational materials, and access to available incentives.
On September 18, VNY tenants came together with the airport team to officially launch the Green Tenant Program, marking the start of a collaborative effort to advance sustainability at the airport. Development of the program includes direct engagement with VNY tenants, including interviews with aviation service providers, public agencies, and other campus stakeholders. 25 representatives of VNY tenants attended the kickoff meeting, representing 10 separate tenants on the VNY airfield, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs), charter companies, and more, whose feedback has helped shaped the program’s structure and goals. Tenants expressed interest in renewable energy, electric ground equipment, and better access to information about conservation resources and rebate programs.
“This is a practical step toward making sustainability more approachable for tenants at Van Nuys Airport,” said Jacob Haik, Airport Manager, Van Nuys Airport. “Tenants want to be part of the solution — they’ve asked for help accessing incentives, understanding best practices, and having their efforts recognized. This program is designed to deliver on that and build on a more sustainable future for Van Nuys Airport.”
The Green Tenant Program includes optional tiers of participation based on tenant readiness, with categories such as energy use, water efficiency, sustainable landscaping, and low-emission vehicles. Tenants that participate may be recognized in airport communications, during public meetings, or through spotlight features. A campus-wide survey is planned as part of the program’s next phase, which will help LAWA identify additional areas for collaboration and support.
“As a longtime tenant at Van Nuys Airport, increasing the sustainability of our operations is integral to our operations. I appreciate that the Green Tenant Program kick-off meeting focused on real, achievable steps toward sustainable practices.” said Steve Zimmerman, Chief Executive Officer at Thornton Aviation. “As a family-founded organization with strong community ties, having a supportive partner in the airport empowers us to make smarter decisions, like switching to electric ground support equipment. We know that these changes add up over time and are good for both the community and our business.”
“Improving air quality in and around airports requires collaboration and innovation,” said Wayne Nastri, Executive Officer of the South Coast Air Quality Management District. “Van Nuys Airport’s Green Tenant Program equips tenants with information and resources to take steps toward sustainability. South Coast AQMD applauds Van Nuys Airport leadership in this space and encourages these kinds of initiatives that engage operators and the community in working toward cleaner air.”
The launch of the Green Tenant Program builds on recent sustainability initiatives at Van Nuys Airport, including a zero-emission ground service equipment policy and the waiver of fuel delivery fees for unleaded aviation gasoline. Together, these actions reflect VNY’s commitment to cleaner operations and stronger partnerships with tenants and the surrounding community.
More information about LAWA’s sustainability programs can be found at lawa.org/lawa-sustainability.
