Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) has commissioned a custom-built biodigester, one of the largest of its kind, to enhance its waste management strategy and reduce annual CO₂ emissions by 2,000 tonnes. The biodigester, located at EKFC's Central Commissary Unit in Dubai, processes organic waste on-site, preventing it from reaching landfill.
The biodigester operates through aerobic digestion, using oxygen, heat, and microorganisms to break down organic waste, producing grey water that can be repurposed for non-potable uses. Unlike mechanical systems, the biodigester becomes more efficient over time as its microbial culture adapts to a wider variety of feedstock.
Shahreyar Nawabi, CEO of Emirates Flight Catering, stated, "At EKFC, when we look at where we can make the greatest difference, it's in how we handle waste by treating it responsibly, diverting it from landfill, and finding ways to put it back into productive use."
Since its commissioning in December 2025, the biodigester's throughput has increased, now processing up to 35 tonnes of waste daily. EKFC estimates that diverting one tonne of food waste from landfill avoids approximately 0.7 tonnes of CO₂e, primarily by preventing methane emissions.
This initiative is part of EKFC's broader sustainability efforts, which include investments in solar panels and electric vehicles. Last year, EKFC's solar panels generated 4,000 MWh, avoiding 1,600 tonnes of CO₂e. Additionally, EKFC has eliminated 45,000 kg of plastic annually through packaging changes and developed recipes using production trimmings to minimise waste
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
