USA. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has introduced its Love at LAX water bottles as part of its campaign to minimise single-use plastic water bottles. The reusable water bottles are now available at selected retail stores.
The sustainable bottles are made by Mobot and designed by Los Angeles artist Ruben Rojas.
The ‘Sustain with Love’ water bottle campaign was launched by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports in partnership with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA). The initiative aims to support the airport in promoting sustainable travel among passengers.
Throughout December, guests who purchase US$75 worth of items at a specialty retail store in LAX Terminals 1,2,3,6, Tom Bradley International Terminal and West Gates are eligible to receive a free water bottle while supplies last (terms and conditions apply).
Passengers are encouraged to refill their bottle at water refill stations throughout the airport.
The Mobot water bottle features Ruben Rojas’ signature bold Love graffiti, representing Los Angeles Airport’s commitment to sustainability. The bottles contain 100% recycled stainless steel and non-toxic high-density EVA foam. They are FDA-approved, BPA-free and come with stainless steel straws.
Los Angeles World Airports Interim Chief Executive Officer Beatrice Hsu said: “Eliminating single-use plastic water bottles is essential to improving our environment and enhancing sustainability across our airports.
“We thank our partners at URW for supporting our goals for a greener future in a way that is meaningful and useful for our guests, and we look forward to seeing passengers use their new MOBOT water bottle at our hydration stations.”
URW General Manager, LAX Maral Matossian added: “As a leader in sustainability, we are proud to join LAWA on this important initiative to reduce our environmental footprint.
“We wanted to do something to commemorate this monumental step in protecting our future. Our love for LAX and the environment really shines through with these unique water bottles that will remind our guests to help reduce plastic waste.”
Rojas, a contemporary artist and designer has gained popularity for his ‘Live Through Love’ campaign. He also co-founded Beautify Earth, a non-profit organisation whose mission is to transform neglected walls into murals. His murals can be found all over the world including more than 20 locations in Los Angeles.
Rojas said: “We start by taking responsibility for our actions. Simple daily choices have the power to make a big difference locally and globally. Choose Love, and help shape a world where our decisions reach far beyond ourselves. Today, start by joining us in eliminating single-use plastic and show your love for the planet and take home a limited-edition piece of art.”
Mobot Founder and CEO Lani Cooper added: “The collaboration with MOBOT is a perfect fit for LAX and its guests. As a former flight attendant, I was frustrated at the lack of eco-travel options to support well-being and the environment on-the-go.
“Mobot was born out of my own experiences. The nice thing about the water bottle is that in addition to being eco-friendly, it doubles as a foam roller, providing travellers the chance for a quick stretch during travels.”
As reported, Los Angeles Airport has banned single-use plastic water bottles in June, following a two-year phase-out period. During these two years, airport retailers were allowed to use up their stocks of single-use plastic water bottles and modify purchasing contracts before switching to compliant products.
The policy, which is part of LA’s New Green Deal, requires retailers at LAWA to replace single-use plastic water bottles with containers made from sustainable alternatives, including recyclable aluminum or glass.
Waste reduction and water management are just two important elements of LAWA’s Sustainability Action Plan. The initiative includes plans for Los Angeles International and Van Nuys airports to achieve net zero in the following areas by 2045: no potable water consumed for non-potable uses, and zero carbon emissions from LAWA operations.
LAWA noted its commitment to using 100% renewable electricity by 2045. ✈
