The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) has launched its 2011 Sustainability Report for O’Hare and Midway airports, highlighting the gateways’ efforts to be as green as possible. 

The Sustainability Report details the initiatives the CDA has taken to make sure both Chicago O’Hare and Midway airports are as environmentally friendly as they can be and as sustainable as possible in the long term.

The report lists the CDA’s efforts and accomplishments so far, including ways it has tried to save energy, reduce air emissions, conserve water, salvage and recycle materials, and to keep construction waste and water bottles out of landfills.

Rosemarie Andolino, CDA Commissioner, said: "Chicago is on the cutting edge of national efforts to make airports greener.

"The CDA is fully committed to incorporating sustainability initiatives at our airports and is proud of our efforts and accomplishments to date."

The report also includes a copy of the Sustainable Airport Manual (SAM), which was developed by CDA, and which has served as a guide for other airports.

In the Sustainability Report, CDA shows how it has incorporated sustainability into various design and construction projects, and more recently into every aspect of Chicago's airports, from operations and maintenance to concessions and tenants.

Some of these projects include the installation of vegetated green roofs; an airport apiary at O'Hare; electric vehicle charging stations; and wind turbines among others.

Andolino added: “Our goal is to complement and promote the City of Chicago’s commitment to sustainable initiatives and to enhance the quality of life for our citizens.