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want to admit. Disposable packaging protects hygiene standards and can prolong the life of food within the supply chain as well." Similarly, Jane Bernier-Tran, vp global sales and marketing at RMT Global Partners, says the low cost and efficiency of disposables means they are likely to remain an integral part of inflight service. In France, from January 2020, a new law will require all disposable tableware to be made from 50% biologically-sourced materials that can be composted. But there is debate within scientific and manufacturing sectors worldwide as to whether the energy required to produce environmentally friendly plastics is greener than the alternatives.
Cost is king
Kaelis Group is looking for eco-friendly materials to comply with new regulations but acknowledges that price is a challenge for the airline industry. Chief executive Federico Heitz says: “Disposable products could continue to work if made 100% of one material which can be recycled. Meanwhile, we are looking at compostable solutions but they are still more expensive. In a move to reduce the CO2 footprint we have designed a stackable food container that reduces transport costs simply by needing less space.“
It's a balancing act
Global-C is in this space too. Director Wayne Costigan insists disposables are here to stay, though the emphasis is now on considering how products are handled after use. “We have designed ‘environmentally-friendlier’ solutions to satisfy a range of end-of-life scenarios,” he says. “That means PET recycling systems in Europe; compostable cutlery packs, dishes and paper cups that will disappear over shorter periods; and polymer coatings for paperboard that can be recycled, composted or incinerated.” Seattle-based Global Inflight Products (GIP) has been supplying onboard products for over 20 years. Chief executive Lisa Benzaoui says market trends in disposables is a balancing act between environmental concerns and cost, while customers are still demanding durable, versatile products that enhance the brand image. The issue is impacting across the table setting with a greater demand for pocket-fold napkins: “As the trend to eliminate plastic bags gains momentum, pocket-fold napkins with cutlery are a great way to present passengers with an elegant yet affordable solution. These products can be made using biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable materials, “ says Benzaoui.
Above L-R: RMT's bioplastic straws from renewable biomass and eco-conscious options from Kaelis. Below: Boxed solutions from Global-C
onboardhospitality.com
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