In 2023, American Airlines Cargo reduced its long-term plastic waste by more than 150,000 lbs.

That’s the equivalent of 8.6 million water bottles, and is a result of using biodegradable plastic products from BioNatur Plastics for use in air cargo operations.

American Airlines Cargo says that it plans to continue replacing traditional plastic used for stretch wrap and pallet covers.

The BioNatur Plastics line is manufactured with a one per cent load of an organic, food-safe proprietary additive that allows anaerobic bacteria to digest the plastic in a landfill.

Outside of a landfill, the plastic has an indefinite shelf life and performs exactly like traditional plastic products.

Greg Schwendinger, president of American Airlines Cargo, said: “Sustainability is of paramount importance for us at American, and we are so pleased that our transition to BioNatur Plastics is one way we can implement real change in our cargo operations.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership with BioNatur Plastics as we unite in working toward a greener future.”

American Airlines Cargo began transitioning to BioNatur Plastics products at major US hubs in early 2022, reducing long-term plastic waste by the equivalent of 6.4 million water bottles in the first year.

In 2023, the carrier expanded its use of biodegradable products to include regional domestic stations, such as Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), as well as internationally to Carrasco International Airport (MVD) and Santiago International Airport (SCL) in Latin America.

Charles Rick, president of BioNatur Plastics, said: “American is a leader in sustainability and we are proud to work with the cargo team to make the switch to our biodegradable and recyclable plastics. We look forward to even greater impact together in 2024.”

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