As part of its continuous commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) has taken a bold step in eliminating 37 tons of single-use plastics from its operations every year. This major move, which started on December 1, involves the introduction of innovative plastic-free food packaging on flights departing from Copenhagen, Oslo, Arlanda, and Gothenburg. By adopting this sustainable alternative for all single-use food packaging, SAS is not only cutting waste but also setting a new standard in the aviation industry for environmental responsibility.
SAS has partnered with its suppliers to develop an advanced solution: a fully sealed cardboard barrier that meets food-grade standards without relying on traditional plastic coatings. This environmentally friendly packaging is part of the airline’s larger strategy to minimize plastic use and explore more sustainable materials, a key step toward the company’s goal of using 100% sustainable materials by 2030.
A Practical Step Toward Sustainability
SAS’s decision to introduce this new packaging system comes at a time when the airline industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. This initiative to cut single-use plastics is part of a broader effort to promote sustainability across various aspects of the airline’s operations. For SAS, this move is not just about the products they offer onboard but also about making a tangible impact today in the fight against climate change.
“Replacing single-use plastics is a great example of how we are working to address our environmental impact through choices we can control today,” said Aron Backström, Vice President of Product and Loyalty at SAS. “Our ultimate goal is decarbonization, and eliminating single-use plastics is a practical, immediate action to reduce our carbon footprint. Small steps like this show how much we can do in the pursuit of a more sustainable aviation industry.”
This shift to sustainable packaging is not just a win for SAS but also for the wider food production sector. By making this sustainable packaging solution available to other food producers, SAS is helping to drive industry-wide change.
Reducing Waste and Fuel Consumption
The introduction of sustainable packaging is only one part of SAS’s comprehensive approach to sustainability. The airline is also focused on reducing waste onboard and optimizing the materials used in its cabins. This effort includes reducing the weight of cabin materials, which directly reduces fuel consumption and, as a result, decreases emissions.
By exploring reusable and biodegradable materials, SAS is contributing to the aviation sector’s broader goals of improving fuel efficiency. “These changes are part of a much bigger picture,” Backström added. “Through every decision we make, whether it’s in our packaging or our cabin materials, we’re working toward a future where the aviation industry becomes a leader in environmental stewardship.”
Long-Term Environmental Strategy
SAS’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its immediate operations. The airline has set its sights on long-term environmental goals that include fleet renewal, biofuel transition, and optimizing flight operations. The introduction of newer, fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A350 and Airbus A320neo helps reduce fuel use and emissions, while expanding the use of biofuels is a step toward lowering the airline’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Additionally, SAS is exploring cutting-edge technologies to reduce its carbon footprint even further. In collaboration with partners, SAS is actively involved in developing hydrogen-powered and electric aircraft. The airline’s ultimate goal is zero-emission aviation, a target that will take years to fully achieve but one that is within sight with continued innovation.
A Call for Collective Action
Sustainability in aviation is an ongoing journey, and SAS acknowledges that such change requires collaboration from all sectors, including passengers. “Achieving these milestones requires everyone’s support,” said Backström. “We’re committed to making these changes as seamless and beneficial as possible for all passengers. While change can feel challenging at first, together we can embrace alternatives like biodegradable packaging and reduced waste for a more sustainable future.”
SAS’s move to reduce single-use plastics is a vital part of a broader movement toward cleaner, greener aviation. With such innovations, the airline is not only reducing waste but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in air travel.
