Monday, May 26, 2025
For over a decade, Cathay Pacific and Feeding Hong Kong have demonstrated the power of partnership in tackling food waste and hunger in Hong Kong. Their joint initiative to rescue surplus food from inbound flights and redirect it to those in need is a shining example of how businesses and non-profits can collaborate to create meaningful social and environmental impact.
Transforming Excess Food into Nourishment and Hope
Since launching their program in 2014, Cathay Pacific and Feeding Hong Kong have successfully rescued more than 2,250 tonnes of food that would have otherwise gone to waste. This surplus—ranging from packaged snacks and beverages to fresh fruit—is redistributed to vulnerable communities, reaching approximately 260,000 people to date. By diverting this food from landfills, the initiative also helps reduce the environmental burden caused by waste decomposition and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cathay Pacific stands out as the first airline to partner with Feeding Hong Kong in this endeavor, setting a precedent for sustainability in the aviation sector. Their proactive approach exemplifies how airlines can play a pivotal role in addressing food insecurity while minimizing environmental impact.
Celebrating a Milestone with the Community
To mark this significant milestone, a special event was held at Feeding Hong Kong’s state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled warehouse in Yau Tong. Representatives from both organizations gathered to highlight their shared mission of promoting community welfare through sustainable practices.
Cathay Pacific’s involvement goes beyond donating food. The airline mobilizes employees and volunteers, who dedicate their time and effort to support the program’s operations. Feeding Hong Kong coordinates these activities, ensuring that the rescued food reaches over 150 charity partners on the frontlines, who then distribute it to families, seniors, and others facing food insecurity throughout the city.
Streamlined Operations and Rigorous Food Safety
Feeding Hong Kong maintains a permanent presence at Cathay Dining, the airline group’s flight catering operator located at Hong Kong International Airport. This close collaboration allows for the efficient collection of surplus food items immediately after they arrive on flights.
Each donated item undergoes thorough inspection to ensure it is fresh, safe, and suitable for redistribution. Expiration dates and packaging integrity are meticulously checked to guarantee the quality and safety of the food reaching beneficiaries.
The rescued food is stored securely in the organization’s 11,500-square-foot temperature-controlled warehouse, preserving freshness until it is delivered to partner charities.
Driving Food Security and Sustainability in Hong Kong
This food rescue initiative significantly supports Hong Kong’s broader efforts to combat hunger and reduce environmental waste. By repurposing food destined for landfill, the program helps curb methane emissions and conserves valuable resources, aligning with international sustainability goals.
Moreover, this partnership encourages greater awareness of sustainability within the aviation industry and the corporate world at large, inspiring other companies to implement similar responsible practices.
Yearly Impact and Extensive Community Network
Annually, Feeding Hong Kong manages over 1,200 tonnes of food donations sourced from airlines, food retailers, and producers. Through its vast network of more than 150 frontline charity partners, the organization ensures equitable distribution to those in need across Hong Kong’s diverse communities.
This system of redistribution fosters social resilience and helps thousands maintain dignity and nourishment during challenging times.
Setting a Standard in Corporate Social Responsibility
Cathay Pacific’s long-term dedication to this program reflects its deep commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The airline integrates environmental stewardship, social impact, and sustainable business practices into its core operations.
By pioneering surplus food rescue efforts in aviation, Cathay not only reduces waste but also champions a culture of care that sets an example for airlines worldwide.
Innovation and Broader Reach
Building on its achievements, the partnership between Cathay Pacific and Feeding Hong Kong plans to expand its impact. Upcoming strategies include leveraging technological innovations to improve logistics, increase food recovery, and enhance tracking and distribution efficiency.
Awareness campaigns will further engage stakeholders and the public, promoting sustainable consumption and encouraging other businesses to join the cause.
Collaborative Solutions for a Sustainable Future
The success of this initiative underscores the importance of collaboration among the private sector, non-profits, and government agencies. These partnerships are vital for scaling up efforts to combat food insecurity and environmental degradation comprehensively.
Together, these sectors can build resilient systems that ensure surplus food is redirected to those who need it most, reducing waste while supporting vulnerable populations.
