In conversation

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i believe it is our job to find the opportunities for change

Cooperation is key, says LSG-Group's Simon Frischemeier, chairperson of the Airline Catering Association's sustainability working group

The very nature of a topic like sustainability requires cooperation. There are many challenges better overcome if we work together across the industry. That was my main motivation for taking on this role on the working group. At LSG Group we had already identified Sustainable Development Goal 17, Partnership for the Goals, as one of our priorities and the working group supports this bringing together representatives from gategroup, dnata, Newrest, KLM Catering Services and ServAir, plus Fabio Gamba, MD of the Airline Catering Association (ACA) and Airport Services Association (ASA).

The committee has three main aims: to establish a collective understanding and holistic approach to sustainability; to provide a platform where members can share their knowledge and best practices; and to enable change by giving voice to the airline caterers. The biggest opportunities for change actually lie in the group’s priorities. Firstly, by speaking as one, the airline catering industry’s voice can be better heard when it comes to sustainabilityspecific regulations. Secondly, the committee can identify common pain points and take collective action. Finally, providing a platform for members, enables collaborative solutions to issues such as waste management and developing industry guidelines.

Positive progress

I am confident we can make good progress and we already have. We’re fine-tuning our focus while also navigating the pandemic but the topic of sustainability remains key for us all. The working group remains open to cooperation with other stakeholders, and we are looking for opportunities. After all, certain sustainability goals are better achieved through partnership and collective change. At present, the working group has already been in touch with another association to exchange on our current efforts.

We believe the industry is open to change. Over the past three years, there has been a visible focus on sustainability from many airlines. However, we are navigating a heavily regulated industry, which sometimes poses limitations. I believe it is our job to find opportunities for change, and to collaborate with customers to develop sustainable products and services that will benefit all stakeholders. •