The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has announced Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (HACTL) as the winner of the Corporate Category at the 2026 Air Cargo Sustainability Awards, held in partnership with CHAMP Cargosystems.
HACTL received the award for its project “Redefining Cargo Packaging Through Circular Materials,” which focuses on reducing single-use plastic waste in air cargo operations through the development of aviation-grade polyethylene cargo films produced from post-consumer recycled materials.
According to TIACA, the project successfully achieved laboratory validation of what is described as the industry’s first 100% post-consumer recycled cargo film capable of meeting aviation-grade operational and mechanical requirements.
The initiative combines material innovation, operational deployment, and closed-loop recycling processes aimed at reducing reliance on virgin plastics while supporting circularity across cargo handling operations. At full implementation, the project could divert around 700 tonnes of plastic waste annually from landfill while also reducing lifecycle carbon emissions linked to cargo packaging.
“HACTL’s project demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can create practical sustainability solutions with real industry impact,” said Manuel Galindo, Chief Executive Officer of CHAMP Cargosystems. “Their work not only advances circularity in air cargo operations but also establishes a scalable model that can inspire broader adoption across the global logistics sector.”
Glyn Hughes, Director General of TIACA, said the initiative stood out for addressing a long-standing operational challenge with a practical and scalable solution for the wider air cargo industry.
TIACA also announced the finalists in the Start-Up/Small Business Category, including BioNatur Plastics, CargoAi, and Goods2Load. The finalists will present their projects during TIACA’s Executive Summit in Warsaw, where attendees will select the winner of the US$10,000 prize. The official presentation of the 2026 Air Cargo Sustainability Awards will take place during the TIACA Executive Summit in Warsaw from June 1–3.
