new and more sustainable eco-serviceware, and a trial was conducted on recent services to the Cook Islands, when single-use plastic was switched out as part of its meal packaging. Accordingly, the usual plastic was replaced by containers made from rotable plastic and bagasse. The former is a plastic which is reusable, while the latter is an agricultural by-product produced from plant fibre, having a lower carbon footprint in comparison to traditional serviceware material. During the trial the airline also replaced its plastic cutlery with a bamboo alternative.
According to Air NZ’s Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty, serviceware that is currently being used is a decade old and is in need of immediate change. “We’re on a journey to reduce the impact of our serviceware on the environment by moving away from single-use plastics and trialling more sustainable serviceware across some of our international flights,” she said.
It is believed that about 28 million single use plastic cutlery and dishes are being removed from inflight every year. This is not the first time Air NZ has attempted to improve its eco credentials. Recently, the national carrier announced plans to collaborate with Airbus regarding the potential for zero-emission aircrafts. The airline is set to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century, while the aerospace company hopes to develop a zero-emission commercial aircraft by 2035.
