Cathay has released its 2023 Sustainability Report, highlighting its ongoing commitments and progress in achieving sustainability goals through collaboration with customers, business partners, regulators, and employees.
Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam emphasised that sustainability is inherent in Cathay’s purpose and that achieving this purpose requires collective efforts. “By embracing the collaborative ethos of ‘Greener Together’, we aim to lead by example and reach new heights in building a more sustainable future,” Lam said.
The report underscores Cathay’s key highlights and achievements in 2023:
- Committing to near-term climate improvements: Cathay set a new near-term target to improve its carbon intensity by 12% from the 2019 level by 2030, building upon its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The airline’s focus remains on accelerating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use, modernising its fleet, and driving operational improvements.
- Accelerating the use of SAF: Cathay continues to drive the development of the SAF supply chain in the region, conducting its first overseas SAF uplift on commercial flights and expanding its Corporate SAF Programme by establishing partnerships with new corporate clients and a non-governmental organisation.
- Moving towards more sustainable use of resources: Cathay Pacific set a new target to decrease passenger-facing single-use plastic (SUP) items from an average of 7.7 pieces per passenger in 2019 to 1.5 pieces by 2025. The airline also aims to reduce cabin waste by 30% from the 2019 baseline by 2030, by incorporating circular economy principles into its product and service design.
- Revitalising the Hong Kong community: Cathay successfully rejuvenated the Cathay Volunteer Team and engaged in various youth-centric programmes aligned with the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Strive and Rise Programme, including the popular Cathay Community Flight and Aviation Exploration Days.
As a pioneer of SAF, Cathay continues to lead the charge in accelerating collaboration and deployment of SAF within Asia. The airline is also dedicated to transitioning towards circular solutions by setting a clear roadmap for SUP and waste reduction.
In line with its longstanding commitment to making positive contributions to Hong Kong society, Cathay is proud to engage in a multitude of community initiatives with a primary focus on youth development.
