Berlin Airport Cuts CO₂ but Faces Pressure Over Flight Emissions

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has earned a Level 4 certification in a European programme for reducing CO₂ emissions. The recognition highlights its progress in cutting carbon output, though most of its emissions still come from flights and ground transport. Environmental group Greenpeace is now urging stricter measures to tackle these indirect sources.

In 2024, BER’s own operations—known as Scope 1 and 2 emissions—made up just 7.5 percent of its total CO₂ output. The remaining 92.5 percent came from indirect sources, or Scope 3 emissions. Over two-thirds of these were tied to flight operations, while about a quarter originated from passenger travel, ground services, and fuel deliveries.

The airport has already taken steps to lower energy use. LED lighting and dimmed runway lights at night have cut power consumption. By 2030, BER plans to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 65 percent compared to 2010 levels. It also aims to produce roughly a quarter of its electricity on-site, mainly through solar panels. The long-term goal is climate neutrality by 2045.

Greenpeace, however, argues that more must be done to address flight-related emissions. Expert Lena Donat has proposed banning private jets and slashing domestic flight slots. These measures, the group claims, would significantly reduce the airport’s largest source of CO₂.

BER’s certification reflects its efforts to shrink its direct carbon footprint. Yet with flight operations and ground transport contributing the bulk of emissions, pressure remains for broader changes. The airport’s future plans include more renewable energy, but calls for stricter flight restrictions continue.