Stansted is swapping plastic security bags for a fully compostable version as part of its sustainability campaign. 

There will be 50,000 PMC Polythene bags distributed to passengers during the Christmas period to use for liquids, aerosols and gels in hand luggage. 

Staff will be seeking passengers’ feedback on the bags, while encouraging those who opt for plastic to re-use them as many times as possible.

The trial is the latest push in the airport’s Reduce, Reuse, Recycle initiative, and could potentially replace the 11 million plastic bags handed out in the terminal every year.

It was suggested by security staff Daniel Bryan, Carol Morgan and Edita Andrews.

Stansted worked with the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority to approve this trial.

 
“[Non-recyclable plastic bags] can obviously be used again for a return flight, but there are plenty of other uses for them if you’re not a frequent flyer, so we’re urging people to avoid throwing them away after they fly,” said Martin Churley, Stansted’s environment manager.
 
“However, we’re always on the lookout for new ways to cut down on waste, and trialling new compostable bags is just another example of how we are leading the way in tackling some of the local environmental impacts.”

This comes as TTG became the first travel trade magazine to be distributed in 100% home compostable packaging.