The Government has made it clear that there will be no further growth of Heathrow unless strict environmental limits are met.

Noise

There must be no more noise than in 2002. Noise levels are measured by the net size of the 57 dBA leq noise contour – a measure of average noise levels that is compiled each year by the Civil Aviation Authority. It is used by the Government to mark the approximate onset of community annoyance from noise sources. In 2002 the size of the 57 dBA leq noise contour was 127km².

Find out more about the existing noise contour

Find out more about what BAA is doing to minimise the impact of noise from Heathrow?

Air quality

All pollutants must be consistently contained within levels set by the EU Air Quality Directive, which becomes legally enforceable in 2010. The Air Quality directive relates to levels of Particulates (PM10) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in residential areas. Nitrogen Dioxide poses a particular problem for Heathrow where aircraft and road traffic contribute to levels of NO2.

What we are doing to improve air quality?

Surface access

The Government has stressed that it has no plans for further motorway widening schemes around Heathrow. ny development which leads to more passengers travelling to the airport must include public transport improvements to help manage congestion.

What are we doing to ease congestion around the airport?

Climate Change

In its White Paper Progress Report the Government committed to consult on the development of a new emissions cost assessment.  This assessment will inform decisions on major increases in aviation capacity by considering whether the aviation sector is meeting its external climate change costs.

What are we doing to combat climate change?