Cathay Cargo Terminal announced that it adopted 50% recycled plastic cargo cover sheets for all Export Cargo shipments built up within its terminal, increasing from its current specifications of no less than 30% recycled content.

​Cathay Cargo Terminal said it worked with its supplier to develop this solution — which has been tested in the laboratory and underwent real-world trials with its customer Cathay Cargo in 2023.

The new material will be rolled out across the terminal from March 2024.

"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," said Tom Owen, Cathay director cargo.

Michelle Fok, head of sustainable development at Cathay Subsidiaries, said the circular economy is an "important concept" to reduce waste and prolong product lifecycles.

The announcement said the cargo terminal has implemented circularity in cargo plastic sheets since 2017 and is already recycling 100% of plastic sheets from import cargo shipments, which are broken down at the Cathay Cargo Terminal.

"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," Fok said.

Cathay Cargo Terminal’s sustainability earlier became the first facility in Hong Kong to sign up to participate in the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme in October 2023.

The IEnvA programme provides globally recognised environmental and sustainability standards for the aviation industry.

Mark Watts, chief operating officer at Cathay Cargo Terminal, said 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," he added.