LATAM has committed to eliminating single-use plastics from its operations by 2023, the airline announced on Wednesday.
The South American airline said the commitment will be achieved through initiatives such as changing onboard materials, incorporating more sustainable elements, and via the group’s recycling and reuse programmes.
Since 01 June, all international flights have reusable bags to cover rest items in the Premium Business cabin. New travel kits were also recently launched for passengers in Premium Business, with sustainable elements such as bamboo toothbrushes and kraft paper wrappers.
Changes to the materials of all onboard service elements in the Economy cabin, such as glasses, cutlery, tableware, will be announced in the coming weeks.
LATAM Cargo is implementing five pilot projects, expected to reduce the use of plastic in cargo operations by more than 60 per cent. This includes an initiative to replace the plastic used for wrapping loads with reusable blankets or waterproof covers.
“The proposed goals have challenged us to rethink the design, materiality, and protocols of our onboard service,” said Paulo Miranda, VP of customers at LATAM Airlines Group.
“We are aware that this is a gradual process, where we still have a lot to learn, but we will continue working to implement concrete changes that allow us to generate a greater impact for the benefit of our communities and ecosystems,” he added.
These initiatives are part of LATAM's sustainability goals, which include achieving zero waste to landfill by 2027, offsetting 50 per cent of domestic emissions by 2030, and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.