Pandemic or recovery, climate change continues to be an ongoing topic of discussion at various global forums. The coronavirus outbreak just came in as a startling reminder of why we must not take our environment lightly.
Singapore is one of the very few countries in the world that has been mindful of its actions and impact on climate change. Be it the “no-straw movement”, continued development of water recycling and management, reduction of plastic bags usage or something as simple as distributing reusable masks, Singapore, by doing so, has established a platform for serious action on the issue.
New Business Class As seen on the new A380 aircraft, image by Singapore Airlines
Such initiatives come in as the harsh effects of climate change are being felt all around the world.Hotter weather and reduced rains are now becoming the norm globally.
The flag carrier, Singapore Airlines, is a popular airlines with a high passenger haul, thus contributing to a fair share of carbon emission. Going one step ahead and in the grand scheme of things, Singapore Airlines has taken the onus to initiate changes in the aviation sector.
It has, in its recent initiative, ramped up efforts to ‘go green’ and demonstrate its commitment to sustainability. From using fuel-efficient aircraft and engines to replacing plastic swizzle sticks and polybags for children’s toys with recyclable wood and paper alternatives, Singapore Airlines continues to push the benchmark higher for other airlines to follow.
New Singapore Airlines Suites Exclusively on the new A380 aircraft., image by Singapore Airlines
“We are continuously in a look-out for opportunities and methods to reduce our carbon emissions to mitigate the impact of climate change. This is done through various fuel productivity and savings initiatives. Since 2011, SIA has been an active member of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG), which was established to accelerate the development and commercialisation of Sustainable Aviation Fuels. SIA sees SAF as a long-term measure to support the aviation industry’s carbon-neutral growth goal beyond 2020, and has pledged to advance and adopt aviation biofuels produced in a sustainable way,” says SIA spokesperson.
Apart from biofuel, Singapore Airlines has also introduced new green initiatives to serve guests in an environmentally sustainable manner. To reduce cabin food waste and to remain committed to reducing the use of single-use plastics, they have replaced such items with alternative sustainable materials.
SilverKris Lounge At Singapore Changi International Airport Terminal 3, image by Singapore Airlines
“We have gradually phased out plastic straws, and replaced them with environmentally-friendly paper straws. Our paper products such as tissue paper and toilet rolls are made with FSC-certified paper, which is sourced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. To cut paper waste, SIA has increased the number of publications available on our e-Library, a feature available in the SingaporeAir mobile application, which allows customers to download their preferred reading materials before their flight,” added SIA Spokesperson.
Readers can gain access to the latest editions of World Travel Magazine and other leading publications from Singapore Airline’s e-Library via the SingaporeAir mobile app, available for free download from 48 hours before departure to 48 hours after arrival.
In a world slowly coming out of the grasp of the worst pandemic in living history and the global aviation industry preparing for a gradual reopening of routes, Singapore Airlines continues to draw a delicate balance between business growth and environmental sustainability. ◼
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© This article was first published online in July 2020 – World Travel Magazine.