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Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has introduced 100% closed-loop recycled plastic films for use in cargo handling, making it the first air cargo terminal in the world to do so. This development represents a significant step in reducing new plastic and could serve as a model for the entire industry.
Since 2022, Hactl has been using plastic films made from 30 to 50% recycled material. In collaboration with the Nano and Advanced Materials Institute (NAMI), a fully closed-loop solution has now been developed, made from post-consumer plastic waste from Hactl. This innovation will be immediately integrated into operational processes.
The implementation of these 100% closed-loop recycled plastic films aims not only to reduce the consumption of new plastic but also to encourage other companies in the industry to take similar measures. The goal is to foster a culture where environmentally friendly practices become the norm.
Amy Lam, Chief Sustainability Officer of Hactl, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “Our previous plastic films already contained 30-50% recycled material, but we wanted to accelerate our transition to a circular economy and create tangible benefits for the industry and society. The new 100% closed-loop recycled plastic films enable us to achieve this goal.”
Hactl sees itself as a significant player in the air cargo industry in Hong Kong and is convinced that using recycled material in the packaging of aircraft pallets can significantly improve recycling rates. Lam explains: “We believe there is great potential to enhance the performance of the air cargo industry in this area. By integrating a higher proportion of recycled content into our plastic films, we can achieve closed-loop recycling processes, significantly reduce the carbon footprint of our industry, and keep thousands of tons of non-biodegradable plastic out of our landfills.”
Hactl is Hong Kong’s largest independent air cargo terminal operator, with its highly automated SuperTerminal 1 facility having an annual capacity of 3.5 million tons of air cargo. Since its founding in 1976, the company has contributed to the development of Hong Kong International Airport as the world’s busiest air cargo hub through continuous investments and innovations. Hactl meets all relevant industry standards, including ISAGO, WHO GDP, and all four IATA CEIV certifications.
