The WCAA Department of Environment & Sustainability ensures compliance with environmental regulations, manages potable water systems, and leads the Sustainability Management Plan at Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run Airports.
The Wayne County Airport Authority’s Department of Environment & Sustainability Field Staff manages day-to-day environmental operations at both Detroit Metro and Willow Run Airports, including: aircraft deicing fluid collection and recycling; stormwater management; hazardous/non-hazardous material testing and disposal; facility environmental inspections; recycling program support; and construction project oversight.
Crosswinds Marsh was constructed by Detroit Metropolitan Airport in 1997 in Sumpter Township Michigan to mitigate for wetlands impacted as the result of the construction of the McNamara Terminal and Runways 9R/27L & 4L/22R. The 1,050-acre mitigated wetland consists of open marsh, wet meadows, forested wetlands, and upland forests. The park trail system and boardwalks allow park visitors viewing opportunities of a variety of wildlife, including eagle, beaver, and osprey. Crosswinds offers seven miles of hiking trails, fishing, picnic areas, 4.5 miles of horseback riding trails, and 4.5 miles of cross-country ski trails.
DTW operates the world’s largest aircraft deicing fluid (ADF) recycling system, reclaiming more propylene glycol (PG) than any other airport in eight of the past ten deicing seasons. Its drainage system separates deicing runoff from stormwater, with aircraft deiced either on four remote pads where runoff is recycled or at gates draining to sanitary treatment plants. Recovered PG is repurposed for products like plastics and paints.
View documents on environmental information and permitting.
We’re committed to cutting energy use and reducing our carbon footprint—and we know great ideas can come from anyone. Whether you’re part of the public or work at the airport, we’d love to hear your suggestions. You can stay anonymous or share your contact info if you’d like a follow-up—just check the “Follow-up Requested” box.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is Michigan’s busiest airport, connecting over 30 million passengers annually through world-class terminals and global flight routes.
