Cathay and SIA collaborate on sustainability efforts

Two leading Asian carriers are to collaborate on a broad range of sustainability initiatives.

The collective efforts by Cathay and Singapore Airlines are aimed at advocating for the development and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the Asia-Pacific region and sharing best practices to boost sustainability performance through the reduction of single-use plastics and minimising waste.

The airlines will explore the potential for joint procurement of SAF at selected locations. 

The aim is to boost SAF production and support its wider adoption in the airline industry.

They also want to raise public awareness about SAF’s “critical role” in decarbonising aviation, advocating for supportive policies in the region.

The two carriers will promote the creation of a standard global accounting and reporting framework to ensure the transparency and verifiability of emission reductions from the use of the fuel.

The agreement underscores a commitment by the two airlines to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and affirms an aspiration to help drive sustainability changes in the airline industry.

The second area of focus will be the exchange of best practices to and improve energy efficiency in ground and cargo operations. This will allow Cathay and SIA to improve their sustainability performance, and speed up the development and implementation of sustainable solutions in their operations.

Cathay Group chief executive Ronald Lam said: “As part of our collaborative ethos of ‘Greener Together’, we actively seek like-minded industry leaders for strategic partnerships in transitioning to sustainable aviation. 

“Our collaboration with Singapore Airlines aims to accelerate and support the development of the SAF supply chain in the region, fostering a reliable SAF ecosystem to enable the industry to achieve its long-term decarbonisation goals. 

“Cathay was one of the first airlines in Asia to set a target of 10% SAF for its total fuel consumption by 2030, and we are undertaking a multi-pronged approach to contribute to the aviation industry’s transition towards a greener future.”

SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong said: “Singapore Airlines is committed to embedding sustainability in all aspects of our operations. At the same time, we recognise that we cannot achieve our targets alone. 

“Our partnership with Cathay signifies our mutual ambition to enhance collaboration in sustainability initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region. 

“Together we are helping to set the foundation for a more sustainable aviation industry, and ensure that future generations continue to reap the benefits of air travel.”