SEATTLE- On National Reuse Day, October 20, Alaska Airlines (AS) joined forces with r.World to advance sustainability through reusable cups.
Over the weekend, they conducted their first roundtrip feasibility study from Seattle (SEA) to Minneapolis (MSP), allowing passengers to use r.Cups onboard.
Alaska Airlines Reusable Cups
These reusable cups, already popular at concerts and sports events, aim to reduce single-use waste by being durable and reusable. After each use, the cups are collected, sanitized, and prepared for future use.
Michael Martin, r.World’s founder and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating that Alaska Airlines is setting an example in adopting sustainable practices in the travel industry. He highlighted that reuse is a simple yet impactful way to eliminate waste on flights.
Alaska Airlines’ Managing Director of Sustainability, Ryan Spies, emphasized the airline’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and waste, with a focus on innovative solutions.
The recent test with r.World is part of the airline’s broader effort to explore practical ways to make air travel more sustainable while ensuring safety and quality service. The study is expected to yield insights that will inform future waste-reduction strategies onboard.
Major Milestone
In January 2023, Alaska Airlines became the first airline to offer a plastic-free beverage service, replacing plastic cups with Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)-certified paper cups for economy class and reusable glassware in First Class. This move eliminates 55 million plastic cups annually.
In 2021, the airline also replaced plastic water bottles with Boxed Water™, using 92% plant-based cartons.
In addition to these changes, Alaska Airlines has partnered with the Surfrider Foundation to raise awareness about plastic waste through West Coast beach cleanups.
The airline’s efforts to reduce waste extend to food service, where the introduction of pre-order meal options has resulted in a 61% reduction in food waste in 2023 compared to 2019—equivalent to saving 460,000 meals.
Alaska Airlines was also the first U.S. airline to eliminate plastic straws and stir sticks in 2018, furthering its commitment to reducing single-use plastics and minimizing environmental impact.
Sustainable First
At Alaska Airlines, sustainability extends beyond environmental efforts. Its long-term success relies on a holistic approach that encompasses people, the planet, and communities.
Each year, Alaska releases a CARE report, which outlines environmental and social impact, tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and sharing key insights.
Alaska recognizes that sustainability is a continuous process, and they are committed to driving forward with innovation, accountability, and collaboration to ensure aviation remains a positive influence globally.
CEO Ben Minicucci emphasizes that Alaska Airlines’ purpose is to create an airline people love, guided by values of safety, integrity, kindness, performance, and excellence. These principles underpin sustainability efforts, which focus on reducing their climate impact. They are the most fuel-efficient airline in the U.S. and are committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions over the long term.
Alaska Airlines’ “EverGreen” journey, inspired by Alaskan roots, reflects its dedication to preserving the environment and reducing waste while supporting healthy ecosystems in the regions it operates.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
