Hong Kong cargo terminal recognised for developing the world’s first 100% post-consumer recycled cargo film validated for aviation-grade operational requirements
“Hactl has sustainability built into its DNA. We will continue to innovate to stay ahead of the game, working closely with like-minded partners who share our commitment to sustainability, driving meaningful change across the air cargo industry,” said Frosti Lau, Chief Executive of Hactl.
- Hactl has won the Corporate Category of the 2026 TIACA Air Cargo Sustainability Award for its work on recycled air cargo packaging.
- The Hong Kong terminal has developed and laboratory-validated a cargo film made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled material that meets air cargo handling requirements.
- The initiative aims to reduce plastic waste and support wider adoption of circular packaging across the global air cargo supply chain.
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has been honoured with the 2026 Air Cargo Sustainability Award – Corporate Category by The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA), recognising the company’s pioneering efforts to advance circular economy solutions and reduce plastic waste across the global air cargo supply chain.
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The prestigious award, sponsored by CHAMP Cargosystems, was presented during the TIACA Executive Summit 2026, held in Warsaw, Poland from June 1–3, where more than 320 air cargo executives, logistics specialists, and industry stakeholders gathered to discuss emerging challenges, innovation, leadership, and the future direction of sustainable air freight.
Hactl received the accolade for its groundbreaking project, “Redefining Cargo Packaging Through Circular Materials,” an initiative focused on transforming traditional cargo packaging through the introduction of aviation-grade polyethylene cargo films manufactured entirely from post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic materials.
The initiative represents a major breakthrough in sustainable cargo handling practices, supporting the industry’s transition towards a circular economy and significantly reducing dependence on virgin plastic materials. Hactl has become the first air cargo terminal worldwide to successfully develop and laboratory-validate a 100% PCR cargo film that meets the strict mechanical strength, durability, and operational performance requirements necessary for demanding air cargo environments.
The achievement demonstrates that environmental responsibility and operational reliability can progress together, creating a practical and scalable solution that has the potential to be adopted by airlines, cargo terminals, ground handlers, and logistics providers across the international air freight ecosystem.
Commenting on the recognition, Frosti Lau, Chief Executive of Hactl, highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to sustainability and innovation.
“Sustainability is built into Hactl’s DNA. We will continue to innovate to stay ahead of the game, working closely with like-minded partners who share our commitment to sustainability and driving meaningful change across the air cargo industry,” said Lau.
Roos Bakker, Chair of TIACA, praised Hactl’s achievement, stating that the initiative represents the kind of innovative thinking needed to accelerate the industry’s sustainability transformation.
“Hactl’s achievement demonstrates the type of bold thinking and commitment that will help shape the future of our industry. Their work proves that sustainability challenges can be addressed through innovation, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge traditional approaches. We are delighted to recognise Hactl’s leadership and congratulate the entire team on this remarkable accomplishment,” Bakker said.
Glyn Hughes, Director General of TIACA, noted that the high standard of entries for the 2026 awards reflected the significant sustainability progress being made throughout the air cargo sector.
“The quality of submissions received for this year’s Sustainability Awards once again highlighted the incredible progress being made across our industry. Hactl’s initiative stood out for its practical application, measurable environmental benefits, and potential for broader adoption across the global supply chain. This is exactly the type of innovation the Air Cargo Sustainability Awards were created to recognise and celebrate,” Hughes said.
Manuel Galindo, Chief Executive Officer of CHAMP Cargosystems, emphasised the importance of collaboration and practical innovation in reducing the aviation industry’s environmental footprint.
“At CHAMP, we are proud to support the Air Cargo Sustainability Awards and recognise initiatives such as Hactl’s, which demonstrate how innovation can deliver both environmental and operational progress. Their achievement in advancing circular packaging solutions reflects the kind of practical, scalable approach our industry needs to reduce its environmental impact. Through continued collaboration across the air cargo ecosystem, we can accelerate meaningful change. Hactl’s work sets a strong example for others to follow,” said Galindo.
The TIACA Air Cargo Sustainability Awards continue to spotlight organisations delivering measurable environmental, social, and economic benefits while contributing to the long-term sustainability goals of the global air cargo industry.
Following the success of the 2026 edition, TIACA has encouraged airlines, cargo handlers, logistics companies, technology providers, start-ups, and innovators across the supply chain to prepare submissions for the 2027 Air Cargo Sustainability Awards, with the next call for entries expected to open later this year.
Hactl’s recognition highlights the growing momentum behind sustainable innovation in air cargo, where advanced materials, circular economy principles, and cross-industry collaboration are becoming essential drivers in the journey toward a greener and more responsible global supply chain.
