In a rapidly changing global landscape where environmental concerns are at the forefront, it's only natural that we start to imagine innovative and sustainable alternatives for the aviation industry. As the aviation industry continues its rapid expansion, air travel continues to have the highest environmental footprint per kilometre travelled in the transportation sector.
A single long-distance flight can produce a greater volume of carbon emissions within a matter of hours than what the typical individual in 56 distinct nations would generate over the course of an entire year.
Let’s delve into the current developments within the sustainable aviation fuel industry and explore the potential impact of these eco-friendly fuels. Additionally, we'll discuss the factors contributing to their relatively limited adoption, shedding light on why they are not yet a more widespread choice.
What is currently happening in the Sustainable Aviation Space?
In the ever-evolving realm of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), significant progress is being made towards reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in 2020, approximately 120,000 flights utilised SAF, marking a threefold increase compared to 2019. This surge in usage has led to a substantial decrease in CO2 emissions.
Increasing awareness of climate change and the environmental impact of air travel has pushed both airlines and regulators to accelerate their SAF initiatives.
Airlines are actively investing in SAF and announcing ambitious sustainability targets. Furthermore, there is a growing presence of independent non-governmental organisations (NGOs), actively contributing to research efforts aimed at identifying and promoting more sustainable biofuel options.
As the world strives to mitigate climate change, the SAF sector is also witnessing advancements in feedstock diversity. Beyond bio-based sources, SAF can now be produced from various feedstocks, including municipal solid waste and agricultural residues. This diversification is essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and ensuring a consistent SAF supply. Furthermore, the emergence of collaborations between airlines and SAF producers is fostering innovation.
Feedstock - Raw material to supply or fuel a machine or industrial process.
What are sustainable aviation fuels capable of?
In order to be classified as sustainable, SAF must deliver a minimum of a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to current oil-based jet fuels.
However, research indicates that SAF has the potential to surpass this requirement, achieving emission reductions of up to 80% when compared to conventional jet fuels. Nevertheless, it's important to acknowledge that the SAF production process itself is not entirely emissions-free. Some emissions are released due to the energy demands associated with transporting raw materials and refining the fuel. Adopting a holistic perspective is essential as we explore solutions and remain open to a diverse range of opportunities for developing even more sustainable alternatives.
According to IATA when it comes to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) produced from biomass, the carbon dioxide absorbed by these plants during their growth phase is equivalent to the emissions generated when the fuel is consumed. This would make SAF carbon-neutral.
Why are SAF not being used as often as we’d like them to be?
It costs money! Based on the Aviation industry Sustainable Aviation Fuels are highly expensive. Bio-based fuels currently constitute a mere 0.1% of the total aviation fuel consumption. There are many cost related challenges, as highlighted by the European Parliament, mentioning the high costs linked to new technologies and production methods. Industry professionals highlight the cost competitiveness issue, stating that sustainable aviation fuels have yet to match the cost-efficiency of traditional jet fuel.
A shortage of waste-based feedstock represents yet another obstacle. This underscores the need for a more diverse range of feedstocks for sustainable aviation fuel production. This urges us to explore innovative, eco-friendly solutions that reduce our reliance on traditional fossil fuels, fostering a path toward a greener aviation industry
The landscape of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) presents both challenges and opportunities. While SAF currently represents a mere fraction of total aviation fuel consumption, the need for their broader adoption has never been more evident. The obstacles of cost competitiveness and a shortage of waste-based feedstock are substantial, but they also serve as catalysts for innovation and sustainable actions for a less impactful aviation industry.
SAF offers not only environmental benefits but also economic and technological advancements. As we grapple with these challenges, we're reminded that the journey to a greener aviation industry requires collaboration, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Whether from the perspective of industry leaders, policymakers, or passionate sustainability advocates, it's clear that SAF holds the potential to redefine the aviation sector and steer it toward a more environmentally responsible and cost-efficient future.
News From ReWild:
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Wild Regards,
Team ReWild Africa