Airport expansions

Help stop Heathrow expansion

In February 2020, with your support, we scored a huge victory for the planet when the Court of Appeal agreed that plans to build a third runway at Heathrow were illegal.

But in December 2020, the Supreme Court overturned the decision, allowing the project to proceed to the next stage.

The Supreme Court judgment is by no means a "green light". Rishi Sunak has the power to scrap the policy decision to support Heathrow expansion. If enough of us speak out, we can stop unnecessary expansion of airports in the UK.

Lake in Snowdonia, North Wales

Ethical travel

As the summer months are approaching, going on a holiday is looking more attractive. But flying, whether a short or long haul, is one of the most climate-wrecking modes of transport.

The solution is to choose other ways to travel, and to holiday closer to home.

We've put together a handy list of 21 no-fly holidays for you to discover. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or something in between - we've got you covered!

Lake in Snowdonia, North Wales

More planes, more traffic, more pollution - and who wins?

Why airport expansion is a bad idea

1) We can't stop climate breakdown by building runways

Heathrow is one of the biggest single sources of greenhouse gases in the UK. A third runway will all but blow our chances of meeting our targets for cutting emissions.

2) More flights for the few

Just 15% of the UK’s population take the majority (70%) of all flights. Bigger airports would mainly serve the interests of frequent flyers.

3) Filthy air, more noise

Already local people have to endure 1,300 noisy planes landing and taking off at Heathrow every day.  A third runway could mean a 50% increase in flights. Air pollution locally is a problem, and nearly all of London doesn’t comply with WHO standards.

4) The economic argument doesn't stack up

The government claims a third runway will be good for the economy – but there are no guarantees. And they haven’t factored in the true costs of climate change.

5) Transport on the wrong track

A bigger climate-wrecking airport is a massive distraction. 

We urgently need to invest in our rail and public transport networks – they’re simply not good enough for 21st century Britain. 

Play your part

Close-up of Friends of the Earth supporters outside the High Court campaigning against a third Heathrow runway.

Join the fight for people and planet

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