Korean Air to Use Plant-Based Meal Containers by 2026 for Sustainability
Korean Air announced a significant sustainability milestone, committing to replace its traditional plastic meal containers with plant-based packaging manufactured from agricultural waste materials. Beginning December 2025, the South Korean flag carrier will gradually introduce containers made from straw, sugarcane, and bamboo across select routes, with complete network implementation targeted for the end of 2026. The new containers, primarily designated for economy class main entrées including Korean and Western meal options, are manufactured from non-wood pulp, eliminating the need for tree harvesting. According to Korean Air, the packaging maintains heat resistance and durability comparable to conventional plastic containers while reducing associated carbon emissions by approximately 60%.