CDN PHOTO / Cris Evert Ruffolo
MANILA — Low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific Air, has announced today its move to replace non-recyclable utensils to eco-friendly alternatives as part of its commitment to sustainable tourism.
The airline also launched “Juan Effect,” a joint program with the Department of Tourism (DOT) which aims to “engage travelers and local stakeholders to mitigate the environmental impact of tourist arrivals”.
Cebu Pacific mounts an average of 400 flights daily, covering 37 domestic and 26 international destinations.
These flights utilizes approximately 18,500 pieces of plastic spoons and forks, cups, and stirrers.
“We want to cut down on our use of non-recyclable plastic to only what is necessary and are committed to rolling put more initiatives to help protect our planet and ensure that we operate sustainably,” said Lance Gokongwei, Cebu Pacific president and chief executive officer.
In a statement, the airline said Siargao will serve as the site of the Juan Effect pilot module.
Under the program, Cebu Pacific along with the Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units and tourism associations will work together to implement “sustainable tourism action plans.”
The program implementation will start on September 2018.