Bringing circularity to onboard dining
Challenge
TAP Air Portugal wanted to reduce single-use waste on its long-haul flights while maintaining a high-quality passenger experience. The airline was looking for a practical solution that would support its sustainability ambitions without increasing operational costs.
Solution
Drawing on its expertise in circular aviation products, deSter developed a closed-loop tableware concept for TAP’s Economy Class service. The solution includes reusable underplates and bowls that can be used, washed and reused throughout their lifecycle.
At end of life, the products are recycled into raw material and used to manufacture new tableware containing recycled content, creating a circular system that reduces waste and keeps valuable materials in use for longer.
Results
- Introduced a closed-loop tableware concept across TAP’s long-haul Economy Class service
- Replaced single-use products with reusable alternatives designed for multiple use cycles
- Enabled end-of-life recycling into new onboard products containing recycled content
- Supported TAP’s sustainability goals through a practical circular economy solution
- Leveraged deSter’s proven expertise in implementing closed-loop systems for leading global airlines
Impact
The project marks an important step in TAP Air Portugal’s journey towards more sustainable onboard operations. By implementing a circular tableware system, TAP and deSter demonstrated how reuse and recycling can work together to reduce waste while maintaining service quality.
The collaboration highlights the growing role of closed-loop solutions in aviation and showcases how innovative product design can help airlines move toward a more circular future.