The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has introduced a standardised audit platform aimed at reducing cabin waste in partnership with the Aviation Sustainability Forum (ASF).

Preliminary results from a Cabin Waste Composition Audit had shown that the airline sector is generating “over 3.6 million metric tonnes of cabin and catering waste annually.” Of that, food and beverage waste account for over 65%.

IATA said that a standardised audit will resolve previously inconsistent cabin waste audit methods, helping the sector show progress in waste reduction and circularity.

“Effectively managing cabin waste is a challenge that can be solved with the backing of data. It is the responsibility of the sector and its regulators to come together, understand the problem and align on the needed solutions,” said Matt Crane, ASF’s founder.

Crane said: “Working with ASF in developing this audit program is a significant step forward in improving the circularity of the sector.”

According to IATA, ASF’s cabin waste composition platform is set to launch in September 2024.