United eliminating single use plastics from November
The war on single use plastics continues in the airline industry with United Airlines the latest to ditch straws and cocktail picks.
Beginning in November United will start eliminating straws and picks and replace them with reusable bamboo alternatives.
United’s current plastic drink stirrers actually double as both straws and picks.
The airline calls it a ‘small but meaningful step to help minimize the impact plastic products have on our environment.’
United said it is just the first initial step in a wide-ranging effort to be more sustainable.
It is ‘evaluating more sustainable options for our onboard catering operations beyond our current partnerships with brands that are committed to sustainable practices like illy coffee.’
United estimates there are 8.8 billion tons of plastic now polluting the oceans and with about 4,500 flights a day, will make a significant difference.
Unite joins a growing list of airlines including American and Alaska Airlines, hotel chains and cruise lines ditching single-use plastics.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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