In 2022, aviation accounted for 2% of global energy-related CO2 emissions. The emissions from aviation have grown faster in recent decades compared to other modes of transportation including rail, road, or shipping. Since the last decade or so, international travel has seen a huge rise and due to this, aviation emissions in 2022 reached around 800 Mt CO2. The article here sheds light on the intricacies of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and how it can play a big role in reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry.
Understanding Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
SAF is an acronym for sustainable aviation fuel. It is being hailed as an innovative solution gaining prominence in the aviation sector. SAF is derived from sustainable feedstocks and shares a similar chemical composition with traditional fossil jet fuel. Some well-known names in this domain produce SAF primarily from used cooking oil and animal waste fat and corn-based ethanol is being talked about as the future in this regard.
And now the Biden administration released long-awaited guidance on tax credits for new green jet fuel that reduces emissions of greenhouse gasses compared with fuel made from crude oil. This gives refiners and ag companies a big boost. But just replacing fossil fuels with sustainable aviation fuel is not an automatic solution for the climate concerns. Environmental groups have been worried for a long time that a new tax credit will not reduce but in fact, make the problem worse as there is a big chance that it might be set up the wrong way.
Some environmentalists expressed concern that the Treasury Department guidelines could allow credits for fuel made from corn and other crops that they consider poor choices because of the water and other resources needed to grow them.
The Important Role of Sustainable Aviation Fuel
The aviation industry heavily relies on jet fuel due to its high energy density. The fuel helps in running the industry swiftly while making air travel highly efficient. However, with the anticipated growth in air travel and the consequent rise in carbon emissions, sustainable aviation fuel is being seen as a key factor in reducing the environmental impact of the aviation industry. Sustainable aviation fuel offers a substantial reduction of up to 80% in carbon emissions throughout its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel derived from crude oil.
Carbon Savings and Feedstock Sources
The carbon savings achieved by SAF depend on factors such as the sustainable feedstock used, production methods, and the supply chain to the airport. Some key players adopt a diversified approach to sustainable aviation fuel sourcing, including off-take agreements, investments in third-party production facilities, and internal refinery initiatives. Used cooking oil and animal waste fat currently constitute the primary sources for SAF production.
Safety and Applicability
Sustainable aviation fuel can be seamlessly blended with traditional jet fuel, with quality tests conducted in line with standard jet fuel protocols. Handling and usage mirror those of traditional jet fuel, requiring no modifications to existing infrastructure or aircraft. All aircraft certified for current jet fuel specifications can safely use SAF.
Air BP's SAF Impact
Air BP is a name worth-mentioning in sustainable aviation fuel initiatives which is on a mission to make SAF accessible to all. The company has successfully supplied sustainable aviation fuel to over 20 locations across three continents, catering to various aircraft sizes and types.
The company has established a robust supply chain in Sweden, contributing to eco-friendly initiatives, such as Braathens Regional Airlines' 'Perfect Flight.'
Cost Considerations
While sustainable aviation fuel currently incurs higher costs compared to traditional jet fuel, ongoing advancements in sustainable feedstock availability and production technologies are expected to drive down costs in the future. Increasing recognition of emission reduction benefits is promoting greater uptake of SAF.
SAF's Role in Aviation's Green Transition
Sustainable aviation fuel offers a feasible solution for meeting the aviation industry's carbon reduction targets, with the potential for an 80% lifecycle carbon reduction. However, a comprehensive approach, encompassing efficient aircraft design, operational improvements, and future technologies, is essential for a sustainable aviation future.
Challenges and Growth Opportunities
Limited SAF production, primarily due to cost factors, poses a current challenge. Companies that see sustainable aviation fuel as the future are actively engaged in initiatives to stimulate short-term demand, leading to increased production and eventual cost reduction. The industry's commitment to carbon reduction requires supportive government policies, long-term investment strategies, and technological innovations.
Accelerating SAF Growth
Governmental policy certainty, combined with research and development in production technologies and sustainable feedstocks, is critical to accelerating Sustainable aviation fuel's growth. Airlines are contributing to the cause by offering passengers the option to fund SAF usage. This marks a positive step toward industry-wide adoption.
Looking Ahead - Sustainable Aviation Fuel
With only 0.1% of flights powered by sustainable aviation fuel, there is a long way ahead. The key to SAF acceptance lies in cost reduction, necessitating investments in advanced technologies for efficient feedstock processing and sustainable feedstock development. Interim support from governments and stakeholders through policy incentives is essential for fostering confidence among investors and driving significant investments to expand supply.
Sustainable aviation fuel stands at the forefront of aviation's green transition. It presents a viable solution to reduce carbon emissions. Collaborative efforts from industry players, governments, stakeholders, and environmental groups are imperative for realizing the full potential of sustainable aviation fuel. They can collectively steer the aviation sector towards a more sustainable future.
