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Cathay Cargo Terminal uses recycled plastic cover sheets

Cathay Cargo Terminal has become the first cargo terminal in Hong Kong to adopt 50% recycled cargo cover sheets for all export cargo shipments built up in its terminal.

Raising the figure from no less than 30%, the Cathay Cargo Terminal has worked with its supplier to develop the solution.

The solution has been tested in the laboratory and real-world trials have been conducted with Cathay Cargo so the material can be rolled out from next month (March 2024).

Tom Owen, Director of Cathay Cargo, says, “Embracing sustainability is pivotal in shaping the future of air cargo. Our adoption of 50% recycled plastic cargo cover sheets reaffirms Cathay Cargo's commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a new standard for the industry.”

Michelle Fok, Cathay Subsidiaries Head of Sustainable Development, adds, “Our new sheets utilise 50% recycled post-consumer plastic, reducing the reliance on virgin plastic while meeting the operational demands of our customers. We remain committed to working with our suppliers to explore even higher levels of recycled plastic, as well as alternative materials, as part of our long-term goal to reduce plastics in cargo operations.”

In October 2023, the Cathay Cargo Terminal became the first facility in Hong Kong to sign up to the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme for environmental and sustainability standards.

Mark Watts, Chief Operating Officer of Cathay Cargo Terminal, says, “The IEnvA programme provides a systematic way for companies supporting the aviation industry to align with best practices and future proof of their operations by continuously improving their environment management systems. We hope that our participation in this programme will inspire other facilities in the region to join this initiative too.”