Ecosystem Health

Ecosystem health is a vital focus at YVR, given the airport’s location in a unique and sensitive environment at the mouth of the Fraser River. YVR’s commitment to ecosystem health ensures the protection of local wildlife, aquatic systems, and habitats, supporting the well-being of Pacific salmon and other native species. By prioritizing initiatives such as Salmon-Safe certification, integrated pest management, and surface water quality monitoring, YVR actively safeguards the land and water resources surrounding the airport. These efforts not only minimize ecological risks but also promote sustainable operations, benefiting both the community and the broader environment for generations to come.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has made significant strides in environmental sustainability. In 2016, YVR became the first North American airport to achieve Salmon-Safe certification and was recertified in 2022. This certification highlights YVR's commitment to protecting Fraser River water quality and enhancing the habitat for Pacific salmon. YVR's Integrated Pest Management Plan prioritizes environmentally responsible pest control strategies, minimizing hazardous chemicals. The airport also has a comprehensive Water Quality Monitoring Plan to protect the Fraser River from contamination due to surface runoff. During winter, YVR manages Aircraft De-icing Fluid (ADF) through a glycol management program to prevent contamination and ensure safe operations.


In 2016, YVR was the first airport in North America to achieve Salmon-Safe certification and, in 2022, we become the first organization in Canada to be recertified for another five years. As the airport takes a leadership role in shaping a greener tomorrow, this renewal acknowledges YVR’s continued efforts and commitment to ensure its land and water management practices protect Fraser River water quality and enhance the habitat so Pacific salmon can thrive.

Take a closer look at YVR’s journey to becoming recertified Salmon-Safe.

Our Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) ensures a comprehensive approach to managing pests on Sea Island. It prioritizes prevention and control strategies that are effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally responsible. Aligned with Salmon-Safe requirements, the IPMP aims to minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and pesticides, reducing risks to both human and ecological health.

As a Salmon-Safe certified Airport we take water quality monitoring seriously. Our Water Quality Monitoring Plan outlines how we protect the surrounding Fraser River aquatic ecosystem from contamination and other water quality-related impacts due to surface runoff from Sea Island. The Plan details the framework, best practices for pollution prevention and control, the water quality monitoring program, and regulatory compliance to ensure adaptive management of water quality at YVR. During snow and sub-zero temperatures, Aircraft De-icing Fluid (ADF) is essential for safe aircraft operations. We maintain a comprehensive glycol management program to collect, recover, store, and remove sprayed ADF while monitoring potential glycol presence in airport drainage through rigorous perimeter sampling. Investments in infrastructure to capture and contain de-icing fluid, along with proactive monitoring, enable early detection and resolution of equipment or infrastructure issues.

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