Airport becomes Net Zero
partnership’s 50th member

TEESSIDE International Airport has become the 50^th member of a pioneering partnership of local employers taking a joined-up approach to meeting Net Zero targets.

The Darlington Employers’ Environmental Partnership (DEEP) has really taken off since it was launched at the start of 2024, and it has now reached the 50-member milestone through the airport’s “momentous” membership.

It coincides with the airport preparing to launch an ambitious and comprehensive Decarbonisation Action Plan, aimed at providing passengers with zero emission flights from a net zero airport by 2035.

Phil Forster, managing director of the airport, said: “Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at the airport and, when we were approached with the opportunity to join DEEP, we didn’t hesitate.

“The Tees Valley is leading the way on the Net Zero agenda by becoming the country’s foremost sustainability hub, and that is not only great news for the planet but great news for business because it is generating revenue and creating jobs.

“We are talking to airlines and associated businesses because of what the airport and the Tees Valley is doing around sustainability, and our aim is to be the UK’s first Net Zero airport.”

Steps towards that goal include working with stakeholders to establish a 50 megawatt solar farm and a hydrogen filling station on the airport site, while also making all ground-handling equipment carbon neutral.

Teesside is also at the forefront of the global development of sustainable aviation fuel with five out of seven SAF sites based in the region.

Last month, Saudi Arabian firm, Alfanar, confirmed plans to develop the Lighthouse Green Fuels facility at the North Tees industrial cluster, which will lead to the creation of thousands of jobs.

Mr Forster added: “We applaud what DEEP is doing because it is essential that we all work together. We want to work with local businesses and help them to grow because they have a huge role to play in the airport decarbonising.

“It’s a source of great pride that we are DEEP’s 50^th member because it’s a clear demonstration of our commitment to work in partnership with others.”

DEEP enables member organisations to collaborate and share good practice, with regular network and learn events.

Seth Pearson, Director of Darlington Cares, which administers DEEP, said: “This a truly momentous moment for DEEP. Having grown from 20 members to 50 in the space of a year demonstrates how united and determined Darlington’s employers are in their mission to achieve Net Zero. 

“And for our 50^th member to be Teesside Airport, with such a regional significance, makes a strong statement about how DEEP provides valuable opportunities for all employers, large and small.”

Councillor Chris McEwan, Deputy Leader of Darlington Borough Council and the local authority’s lead on the economy, added: “This milestone marks a proud moment for DEEP and reflects our collective commitment to a Net Zero future.

“Built on the principles of shared learning, peer support, collaboration, and trust, DEEP is more than a network — it’s a movement. A space where local businesses come together to tackle climate challenges, exchange ideas, and drive sustainable innovation.

“DEEP continues to be a valuable resource for our business community, offering a wealth of knowledge and experience that everyone can benefit from.

“Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or leading the charge, DEEP is here to support, inspire, and connect.”