STG Aerospace, a supplier of aerospace lighting, has developed what it says is the world’s first sustainable emergency floor path marking system. The system, named ‘saf-Tglo eco E1’, is a more environmentally sensitive version of the company’s existing ‘saf-Tglo SSUL-X11’ cabin illumination system.
Key points of difference include the use of recycled materials, with the new plastic insert produced using 80% post-consumer recycled waste, and the track made with 50% recycled polycarbonate.
The eco version is also free of ‘forever plastics’, as a new biodegradable additive within the track means it will biodegrade at end of its life. STG has limited control of what customers do with their saf-Tglo products at end of life, but this biodegradable version means that if eco E1 is sent to landfill, it will break down.
Another key point is that the product uses a 100% water-based resin for the photoluminescent inserts, eliminating solvents and ensuring emission levels stay consistent through a tightly controlled manufacturing process.
Commenting on the new product construction, STG’s business unit director, Dr Sean O’Kell said: “Sustainability is a priority across the entire aerospace industry, and every firm needs to do its bit to work towards reducing the impact of its activities and products on the environment. Though photoluminescent floor path marking is inherently more sustainable than electrical alternatives (which are heavier, require power, and cause more fuel burn), it has been our mission to find ways to develop more sustainable options.
“We have done a lot of research into sustainable material options. During that difficult process of incorporating recycled materials into our designs, we have made innovative steps that have led to two patents. We are excited and proud to offer our customers an eco-friendly alternative floor-path marking, and play our part in supporting a more sustainable future.”
To support the launch of this new eco product STG is adding another ‘green’ element: the company is working with Ecologi, a UK-based carbon offsetting company, to plant one tree for every length of saf-Tglo eco E1 sold.
In other STG news, the company is supplying The Curve, its new flexible LED lighting solution, for the Qantas Wellbeing Zone, winner of the Passenger Comfort category of the 2024 Crystal Cabin Awards.
