Southwest Airlines introduces bamboo drink cups for sustainability

Helen Giles, Southwest's managing director of environmental sustainability, stated, "We're excited to continue collaborating with our suppliers to work toward our goal of fully eliminating, where feasible, single-use plastics from inflight service by 2030."

This initiative aligns with Southwest's Nonstop to Net Zero strategy announced in 2023, targeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050. By 2025, the company plans to cut single-use plastics generated by inflight service by half and save an additional 50 million gallons of jet fuel.

In July 2024, Southwest transitioned from plastic wrapping for napkin bundles to a paper sheath made from recycled materials. This change eliminated plastic use in this specific item.

Looking ahead, Southwest intends to introduce a select-a-snack offering on Hawaii flights to minimize food waste and decrease single-use plastic packaging by at least 18,000 pounds annually. The airline is also exploring other opportunities to further reduce single-use plastics onboard.

According to Southwest's 2023 report, about 75% of onboard single-use plastics came from cups and stir sticks—now replaced—as well as straws and snack packaging. The remaining 25% stems from wine and liquor bottles. Southwest has pledged to enhance its recycling program through consistent practices and support for upcycling initiatives involving leather seat covers.

Southwest joins other airlines in pursuing sustainability goals. For instance, Alaska Airlines tested a reusable cup program on National Reuse Day during a flight between Seattle and Minneapolis after eliminating plastic cups earlier in January.