Delta Airlines is taking steps to eliminate single-use plastic cups from its flights in an effort to reduce waste. The airline is exploring alternatives like biodegradable cups, reusable containers, and cups made from recycled materials. For now they will use universal, 10.5-ounce paper drink cups to serve cold, hot and alcoholic beverages instead of using both plastic ones and paper ones in flight.

This initiative is part of Delta’s larger sustainability plan to cut down on waste and emissions. By replacing the 2.1 billion plastic cups it uses annually – or 7 million pounds of plastics – Delta plans to reduce its environmental impact while still providing convenience for passengers. 

Also on the table for Delta (and other airlines) is transitioning to more sustainable jet fuels since that is what contributes 90% of the company's overall greenhouse gas emissions. But that's a separate article for another day.