Greener aviation fuels
- Mark Enlow
- Nov 23, 2022
- 2 min read
Sustainable aviation fuels, as opposed to traditional jet fuel, are made from renewable biomass. They enable long-distance air flight and are energy-dense. They are an essential part of long- and medium-term decarbonization. They might also drastically lower CO2 emissions throughout a person's life. To scale up, though, they need deliberate policy and technological development.
By 2050, the aviation sector has committed to zero carbon emissions. To lessen its impact on climate change, it utilizes a variety of technologies, including SAF, as part of this commitment. Additionally, it has set the target of using three billion gallons or more of SAF by 2030. Legislation in Congress and daring collaborations with airlines and other stakeholders promote this aspirational goal.
The sustainable aviation fuels sector has created a strategy to increase the supply of sustainable fuels. This roadmap will take advantage of feedstocks in practically every nation and offers a clear vision of how fuel will be used. This roadmap outlines strategies to encourage businesses to develop and distribute SAF, like a mixed carbon tax. In addition, billions of gallons of sustainable fuel are being developed and used by airlines and other stakeholders.
The SAF paths that airlines and other stakeholders are creating are anticipated to be very important in the short- and medium-term decarbonization process. The CORSIA framework's worldwide standards have been used to certify these paths. In addition, the SAF route is also anticipated to substantially impact long-haul flights in the future.
By 2030, US airlines have committed to using SAFs to replace 10% of their jet fuel. By 2025, 10 million gallons of SAF will be produced and delivered to Delta Airlines by three SAF plants. This dedication expands on the airlines' short-term dedication to carbon-neutral expansion concerning 2019. In addition, airlines collaborate with other interested parties to ensure that financially viable SAFs are rapidly expanding.
The European Commission has put together a comprehensive set of rules to speed up SAF markets as part of the EU's strategy. These regulations include a requirement for SAFs, stringent feedstock standards, and the "Polluter Pays" doctrine. In addition, the EU has also created a package for reforming gasoline taxes, pricing carbon, and recycling revenue.
Due to these activities, a growing number of purchase agreements are being struck to assist the development of the sustainable aviation fuels business. These agreements are made to give airlines the fuel they require to keep offering their consumers safe, effective air transport services. As a result, costs will decrease due to the increased supply, which will also give the sector a solid foundation for future expansion.
New research from the Center for Biological Diversity, "Aviation and Climate Pollution: True Solutions?" The research details the true cost of aviation climate pollution and the strides made by airlines and others to lessen their impact on climate change. It also highlights the requirement for long-term policy certainty to facilitate the expansion of SAF production and use.
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