Delta and Virgin are best airlines of a ‘sorry’ bunch

Delta Airlines has been ranked top of a recycling league of the world’s largest airline businesses, against the background of an industry in a ‘sorry state’ on the issue.

Research by the consumer pressure group Green America says 75 per cent of the 880 million tonnes of annual airline waste is recyclable – but only a fifth is actually recycled.

No airline achieved higher than B minus in the ranking system, which had a highest mark of A and was based on five areas, including recycling plans and education of employees.

Of the 11 companies analysed, Delta Airlines, Virgin America and Virgin Atlantic were deemed the best performers. United Airlines and US Airways were said to be the worst in-flight recycling performers.
 
Green America’s corporate responsibility director Todd Larsen said: ‘Several airlines are significantly ahead of their competitors in taking these steps, so it is clear that comprehensive recycling programmes can be implemented effectively and economically.’

Green America says energy savings from recycling would be ‘a contribution’ to reducing the climate impact of jet fuel.