Report from 2012 ACI-NA/World Conference & Exhibition
09.12.2012 | HMMH |I’m just back from the 2012 ACI-NA/World Conference in Calgary, Alberta. Highlights of the weekend’s Environmental Affairs Conference included the following:
- The release of ACI World’s Airport Carbon and Emissions Reporting Tool (ACERT), a self-contained Excel spreadsheet that enables an airport operator to calculate its own greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory.
- In-depth sharing of ideas on recycling and an update on FAA’s recycling task force.
- A legal round table discussion of a number of hot topics, including FAA’s recently released Program Guidance Letter Letter12-09 AIP Eligibility and Justification Requirements for Noise Insulation Projects.
- A private screening of the documentary Switch, about energy needs and alternative sources (with popcorn!)
- A joint session with the Operations and Technical Affairs Committee on NextGen NEPA issues (see my presentation here).
- An interactive data-gathering session in support of ACRP 02-28, Airport Sustainability Practices: Tools for Evaluating, Measuring, and Implementing Sustainability (with cookies!)
The ACI-NA/World Conference and Exhibition kicked off with the Calgary White Hat Ceremony, a symbol of the Western hospitality and good cheer that made everyone feel very welcome. Somehow I’m having trouble imagining that happening with a bunch of Red Sox hats…
Monday’s keynote speaker was Zanny Minton Beddoes, Economics editor for The Economist. She had some great things to say about her predictions for the economy, some of which was actually reassuring (for a change).
The Exhibit Hall was the usual mélange of consulting firms, concessionaires, and airport engineering products and services – everything from carpets to trains. The Hall is always a great chance to catch up with folks – see who has switched companies, grab a latte, check out who has the best swag, etc.
Finally, I must say I was disappointed not to get a chance to explore Calgary, which seems a vibrant city, awash in oil and gas money. What little I did see (see photos below of the Family of Man and The Famous Five) was beautiful. Next time!