Water consumption

During 2007 we carried out several studies to better understand our water consumption at the airport. Although we did not complete our water efficiency study by the end of 2007, it was completed in early 2008, which falls outside the scope of this report.

In November 2007, other water efficiency work was carried out to inspect 206 chambers containing water valves, air valves and other assets to identify any leakage from these points on the drinking water network. Maintenance was undertaken to stop leaks, but outstanding work is still required at two locations which will be completed in early 2008.

Water quality

In 2007 95.4% of our discharges met Environment Agency standards for surface water quality discharged from our balancing pond system.

In addition to achieving our target for surface water quality, further progress was made on improving water quality during 2007, these include:

• Allowing us to remotely monitor and control our surface water drainage network on a single system through the installation of new software and equipment. The new system also allows us to react more quickly to events that could have an impact on water quality
• Achieving more effective control of surface water pumps, by installing four ultrasonic water level meters, to improve the response of Balancing Ponds A and C to heavy rainfall. This work further reduces risks of both flooding and pollution at these locations
• Improving the quality of surface water discharged at two locations, Balancing Ponds A and C, by purchasing two turbidity meters. The meters continuously monitor and detect elevated levels of soil, dust and grit particles in surface water run off. Water will now be held for longer to allow particles to settle out by gravity in the balancing ponds. The meters will be installed in 2008 and reduce the discharge of these particles to the environment.

More on... water

Issues and approach
Our plans