Alaska Airlines tests reusable r.Cups for sustainability

Airports

Wayne Newton Senior Vice President, Airport Operations and Customer Service | Alaska Airlines

By Sky Industry News

Oct 21, 2024

Alaska Airlines has initiated a feasibility study to test reusable r.Cups on flights, starting with a trip from Seattle to Minneapolis. This initiative, conducted in partnership with r.World, aims to explore sustainable practices within the airline industry by reducing onboard waste.

The trial coincided with National Reuse Day on October 20th. The reusable cups are designed for durability and repeated use, contrasting with single-use items that contribute significantly to waste. After being used, these cups are collected, cleaned, sanitized, and prepared for future use.

Michael Martin, founder and CEO of r.World, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: "We’re excited to team up with Alaska Airlines to take reuse to new heights on National Reuse Day. Together we’re showing that reuse is an easy way to eliminate single-use waste on flights. Alaska Airlines is leading efforts to bring sustainable innovations to their fleet and overall travel industry."

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Alaska Airlines has been proactive in implementing environmentally friendly practices. In January 2023, it became the first airline to offer a plastic-free beverage service using Sustainable Forestry Initiative-certified paper cups or reusable glassware in First Class. This move eliminates approximately 55 million plastic cups annually.

The airline's sustainability efforts extend beyond beverage services. In 2021, it replaced plastic water bottles with Boxed Water™, served from plant-based cartons. Additionally, through its partnership with the Surfrider Foundation, Alaska Airlines conducts beach cleanups along the West Coast and raises awareness about plastic waste's impact.

Further initiatives include allowing guests to pre-order meals, which has reduced food waste by 61% since 2019—a reduction equivalent to 460,000 meals—and eliminating plastic straws and stir sticks from flights in 2018.

Organizations Included in this History

Alaska Airlines

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