To mark World Environment Day on 5 June, Emirates is highlighting the achievements of its closed-loop recycling programme, launched in June 2023.
Over the last year, the airline has recycled and repurposed more than 88,000 kilograms of plastic from Economy Class meal service items, converting them into new products used onboard its aircraft.
As part of its broader sustainability strategy, Emirates has invested over AED 50 million in adopting a closed-loop manufacturing system for inflight dining serviceware.
Used, damaged, or unserviceable Economy Class trays, casseroles, snack dishes, and bowls are collected after flights and sent to a specialised facility in Dubai. There, the items are cleaned, inspected, and processed into new meal service products made with up to 25% recycled material. These products are then supplied back to Emirates Flight Catering and returned to service across thousands of flights.
Given the millions of meal service items used annually throughout Emirates’ global network, the initiative supports circular economy goals by reducing plastic waste destined for landfill and lowering transportation-related emissions through local recycling and manufacturing.
The programme is delivered in collaboration with deSter FZE UAE, a leading aviation serviceware specialist and pioneer in closed-loop manufacturing. As a member of the CE100, deSter works alongside some of the world’s foremost circular economy organisations. The company has also earned a Gold sustainability rating from EcoVadis. Its facility incorporates sustainable design features, including solar energy systems, efficient water management, and waste-reduction measures.
