IAG Cargo grows sustainable operations with biodegradable film for goods

IAG Cargo is trialling new sustainable film for wrapping transported goods at its London Heathrow hub in a bid to save up to 15 tonnes of virgin polyethylene a year.

100% recyclable and biodegradable by landfill, the film has been developed by German disposal company and film manufacturer Verpa Folie alongside US-based BioNatur Plastics.

The film has a 15 micron thickness and is designed to have an indefinite shelf life, prohibiting unnecessary waste.

It can also be used for food and temperature-controlled items – which are popular services for IAG Cargo.

The receiving country of the goods will be able to sustainably dispose of the film, said IAG Cargo.

David Rose, chief transformation officer at IAG Cargo, commented: “We are continuously looking at ways in which we can reduce our impact on the environment in line with our commitment to sustainability.

“This solution provided by Verpa Folie, which we plan to roll out across our operation, will reduce our plastic consumption and is another step forward for IAG Cargo as we become fit for future.”

Peter Griebel, managing director of Verpa Folie Weidhausen GmbH (exclusive producer of BioNatur foil for M&G packaging in Europe) said: “We are really happy that our long-term partner, IAG Cargo, has started using our product, which is one of the most sustainable and thinnest solutions for air cargo operations worldwide.”

The trial of the film builds on IAG Cargo’s current sustainability initiatives, including the 12-month trail of the first electric Terberg YT203EV,with the ambition to transition its current diesel fleet to more sustainable alternatives, including electric.