EARTH DAY 2026: Six things TPA does to help preserve our planet and natural resources

Tampa International Airport is marking Earth Day 2026 with a renewed focus on sustainability, unveiling several new initiatives that reinforce the Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.

The Airport’s Fourth Annual Earth Day at TPA event will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Main Terminal Event Space, featuring more than 20 exhibitors from across the region, interactive displays, and refreshments provided by Newslink and Kahwa Coffee.

Ahead of the celebration, Eric Caplan, TPA’s Sustainability and Resilience Program Director, shared insights into some of the Airport’s newest sustainability milestones and ongoing projects. Here are five highlights TPA passengers and the public can look forward to in 2026:

1. Creating new sustainable guidelines for TPA

This year marks the rollout of TPA’s updated Sustainable Design Criteria Manual, which integrates sustainability considerations into every new project and renovation. The manual ensures that design teams evaluate opportunities for water efficiency, LED lighting, waste reduction, and potential rebates for energy-saving measures. From major projects like the construction of Airside D, to more routine renovations, such as roof replacements, each new project will now include formal reviews to determine opportunities such as solar feasibility. This systematic approach guarantees that sustainability is built into the foundation of all Airport projects, large and small.

2. Putting your Starbucks coffee grounds to good use

TPA is preparing to launch a composting pilot program in partnership with HMSHost (now Avolta) and O-Town Compost, focusing initially on the six Starbucks locations throughout the Airport. The program will collect used coffee grounds from all Airsides and transport them to an off-site composting facility. In a full-circle effort, some of the finished compost may be returned to the Airport’s landscaping teams for use in both interior and exterior plantings. This pilot project marks the expansion of a broader food waste diversion strategy across the TPA campus.

3. Expansion of electric and alternative-fuel vehicles

Continuing its commitment to low-emission transportation, TPA has expanded its electric vehicle (EV) fleet, including new electric buses serving the North Employee Lot and additional EVs and hybrid models for airport operations. These efforts align with the Airport’s long-term goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality across the Tampa Bay area.

4. LEED Certification for the Tampa Airport Marriott

The newly renovated Tampa Airport Marriott hotel recently achieved LEED certification for its room renovation project—a milestone that will be formally recognized during this year’s Earth Day celebration. Representatives from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which oversees the LEED program, will join the ceremony to honor the Marriott’s sustainability achievement. The recognition underscores the Airport’s collaborative approach to sustainability, extending beyond its own operations to include its on-site partners.

5. TPA’s First Responsible Growth Report

In 2024, TPA published its inaugural Responsible Growth Report, providing a transparent look at the Airport’s sustainability performance and community impact. The report highlights achievements in energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and community partnerships, offering the public a comprehensive view of how TPA integrates responsible growth into its business practices. The annual report represents another step in making sustainability measurable, accountable, and accessible to travelers and stakeholders alike.

6. Joining the City of Tampa’s Anti-Litter Campaign

TPA is proudly participating in the City of Tampa’s anti-litter campaign, which is being displayed in areas like the Tampa Riverwalk, local parks, public buses, and now at the Airport. The campaign features six colorful characters named Alli the Alligator, Patty the Brown Pelican, Manny the Florida Manatee, Shasha the Bonnethead Shark, Oliver the Octopus, and Tripp the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. Each character represents local wildlife with a signature Tampa flair. TPA hopes the campaign raises awareness among locals and visitors from around the world that litter harms animals, waterways, and the environment.

Celebrating Earth Day at TPA

For the fourth straight year, TPA’s Earth Day event will bring together Airport tenants, community organizations, and local sustainability leaders, including representatives from the City of Tampa, Hillsborough County, ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium, and the University of South Florida. Visitors can explore educational exhibits, view eco-art made from recycled beach garbage and even visit the popular Butterfly Tampa display.

TPA’s growing sustainability portfolio reflects its vision for a cleaner, more resilient future – one that balances environmental responsibility with the needs of travelers and the community.

Earth Day Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Main Terminal Event Space, Tampa International Airport
Admission: Free and open to the public