Heathrow expansion threatens gov's "environmental integrity"

Tony Bosworth, climate campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said:

“This government-backed plan is virtually the equivalent of bolting an airport the size of Gatwick onto Heathrow. That would mean more noise and air pollution for local communities.

"Expanding Heathrow simply isn't compatible with our legally binding climate targets, even if the government meets its hugely optimistic assumptions for emerging technologies, such as sustainable aviation fuels

"The government has said that airport expansion can only go ahead if it meets tests on climate, noise and air pollution, and growth. Proving that will be an immense task – and breaking this promise will threaten their environmental integrity going into the next election.

"To avoid this, we need evidence-based decision-making, not a reckless gamble with our future."