As an avid traveler, I always look forward to the in-flight meal served by airlines. However, as someone who is environmentally conscious, I always wonder about the waste generated by the airline industry. Did you know that the aviation industry creates nearly a million tons of waste annually? Shocking, right? The good news is that the industry is slowly but steadily taking steps to reduce its waste. In this blog, we will explore how airline catering can reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Introduction

Before we dive into how airline catering can promote sustainability, let’s understand what is meant by sustainability. Sustainability means fulfilling the current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the case of airlines, it means reducing waste, carbon emissions, and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Airplane flying over a blue sky

Use of Sustainable and Biodegradable Materials

One of the main ways airline catering can promote sustainability is by using sustainable and biodegradable materials. Airlines can opt for alternative sources of cutlery, crockery, and cups that are made from biodegradable materials such as bamboo, cornstarch, and sugarcane. These items can be composted, returning to the earth naturally. Additionally, airlines can use containers that have been made from recyclable materials. This will reduce the waste generated by the airline industry and promote eco-friendliness.

Airline meal on a tray made of biodegradable materials

Reducing Food Waste

Did you know that In-flight catering accounts for 500 - 1000 metric tons of waste every day? To promote sustainability, airlines can reduce the amount of food waste generated. Airlines can achieve this by serving pre-ordered meals, which will reduce the likelihood of food waste generated by unsold meals. Additionally, they can donate meals that are unused to charities and food banks. This helps to eliminate food waste while also providing aid to those in need.

Airline staff donating unused meals to charities

Sustainable Packaging

Another way to promote sustainability is by using sustainable packaging. Airlines can use eco-friendly materials for packaging food, such as foil, glass, and paper. Additionally, they can provide a recycling service that collects used packaging, which can be reused, recycled, or composted. This will help to reduce waste and create a more sustainable environment.

Sustainable packaging made of biodegradable materials

Working with Sustainable Suppliers

Finally, airlines can promote sustainability by working with sustainable suppliers. By working with sustainable suppliers, airlines can reduce the carbon footprint of their food supply chain. They should prioritize suppliers who practice sustainable farming methods, such as reducing pesticides and using compost. This will help airlines reduce the environmental impact of their supply chain while also promoting sustainable farming practices.

Agricultural land with sustainable farming practices

In conclusion, the airline industry has a long way to go to become completely sustainable. However, by taking small but significant steps towards becoming eco-friendly, they can reduce the environmental impact of their operations. Using sustainable and biodegradable materials, reducing food waste, using sustainable packaging, and working with sustainable suppliers are all crucial steps in promoting sustainability within the airline industry.

Airline meal on a tray with a recycling bin in the background