The LATAM group has reported ‘significant progress’ in eliminating single-use plastic throughout its operation, reducing more than 1,700 tons, which represents approximately 96% or equivalent to 266 million plastic bags.

“We are proud to conclude 2023 with significant progress in eliminating single-use plastics in all operations, which posed a major challenge for the group. It was approximately a three year process that involved various areas, from travel experience design to operational lines, replacing disposable plastics with reusable, bio-based, and/or biodegradable materials. We know there is still much room for improvement, so we will continue to work hard on this throughout the year,” highlighted Johanna Cabrera, Sustainability Manager at the airline group.

These actions include significant changes. In this regard, reusable cotton bags have been implemented in Business Class for rest elements and amenities, such as pillows, duvets, seat covers, and headphones. At the same time, new amenity kits without single-use plastics have launched, made in Brazil with local raw materials.

READ: LATAM goes plastic-free with Kaelis

In Economy Class, reusable tableware has been implemented throughout the service, based on high-durability reusable plastic, as well as bamboo cutlery and stirrers. Also, the use of paper bands to contain rest items has begun in the subsidiaries of Colombia, Chile, Peru and Ecuador.

Regarding the airport experience, new paper labels and 100% paper courtesy bags were applied network-wide, which is still being implemented throughout different hubs. Additionally, at LATAM Airlines Brazil, snack kits for ground contingencies transitioned to 100% paper and cardboard material.

Finally, in offices and operational areas – particularly in the subsidiaries of Chile and Brazil – paper cups, as well as carts, bags, and paper bags to contain and transport warehouse materials to the aircraft, have begun to be used.