Air Canada, Canada's flagship carrier and a leading global airline, is consistently setting industry benchmarks through its unwavering commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities. As Air Canada celebrates its 35th anniversary in Thailand, the airline reflects on its enduring relationship with the Thai community.
In a time where sustainability has become a crucial imperative, Air Canada's initiative "Leave Less Do More" is a tangible manifestation of its commitment to exapnd its Thai operations while caring for the local communities it now reaches. Emphasis were not only on commitments, but also on a concrete action plan. The "Leave Less" activities, such as the reduction of single-use plastics seen more than 47.8 million items removed from flights since 2019, There is also a comprehensive recycling program that includes giving new life to used and surplus uniforms, the repurposing and recycling of materials, and the donation of unused amenity kits and sanitised blankets to local charitable organizations. These actions illustrate Air Canada's dedication to "Leave Less Do More," aligning with its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from all global operations by 2050.
As Air Canada celebrates its 35th anniversary in Thailand, it is determined to take its commitment to the next level with the resumption of "Bangkok-Vancouver" non-stop direct flights from December 3, 2023, to May 3, 2024. The strategic focus on this route represents a step towards sustainability measures in the local context. With the use of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a modern and fuel efficient aircraft that lowers carbon emissions per seat on the Bangkok-Vancouver route.In addition, operating this non-stop flight is a vital part of "Leave Less " endeavors, Air Canada passengers have the option to offset their cabon emissions with the airline's carbon offset partner CHOOOSE, a climate-tech company devoted to accelerating access to and adoption of climate solutions. As of November 30, 2023, this program allows Economy Class passengers on a one-way flight from Bangkok to Vancouver to purchase carbon offsets for less than C$15.
In Thailand, the Air Canada Team is collaborating with local partners to integrate its global sustainability strategy into the local context, focusing on actively addressing local environmental issues and fostering a positive impact on the communities it serves. Notable initiatives include collaboration with local partners such as Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Patom Organic, ECOTOPIA, and Earthology, which embody Air Canada's commitment to supporting projects with elements of sustainability. These collaborations underscore the airline's dedication to making meaningful contributions that resonate with the specific environmental concerns and community needs within Thailand.
One of the recent highlights was a workshop attended by Air Canada's sales teams from across the Asia Pacific markets. With the support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the team upcycled local construction waste normally destined to landfill into unique, artistic coasters. These finished products can be used in generating income within the community, and at the same time reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional disposal methods.
"We are aware of our shared responsibility for shaping a future that is more environmentally conscious and sustainable as we navigate the skies and connect communities. Air Canada welcomes partners and, travelers, to a new journey of local sustainability , and community development, " - Ms. Kiyo Weiss, Air Canada's Senior Director Sales, Asia Pacific.
"We are very happy to have Air Canada participating in this upcycle project and donating the finished products to us. It is the first time we participated in such activities and with their help, we will be able to use the upcycled products and re-sell it, generating income that can make a direct positive impact to the communities' livelihood." - Sombat Thongsawat, Yan Wang Derm Community
Air Canada reaffirms its determined commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, positioning sustainability at the core of its operations. Through the global sustainability direction "Leave Less Do More" project and the strategic focus on the Bangkok-Vancouver route, the airline exemplifies a dedication to responsible air travel and also allows stakeholders and partners to actively engage and support Air Canada's sustainability endeavors.
To learn more about "Leave Less and Do More" initiatives, explore our dedicated website at https://leaveless.aircanada.com/ca/en/index.html.
Source: FleishmanHillard Thailand