Publication date: 22.05.2024
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has been getting a lot of attention recently as the aviation industry looks for ways to reduce its carbon footprint. SAF is a type of biofuel made from sustainable feedstocks like waste oils, agricultural residues, and algae. It's seen as a promising alternative to traditional jet fuel, which is derived from fossil fuels and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Pros
A benefit of SAF is its compatibility with existing aircraft and infrastructure. SAF can be blended with traditional jet fuel and used in existing aircraft without the need for any modifications. This makes it a relatively easy and cost-effective way for airlines to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to more sustainable practices.
As opposed to conventional jet fuel, SAF can cut carbon emissions by up to 80%. This is dependent on the industrial process, supply chain to the airport, and sustainable feedstock.
Cons
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider when it comes to SAF. One of the main concerns is the cost. SAF is currently more expensive to produce than traditional jet fuel, which can make it a less attractive option for airlines looking to cut costs. The supply of SAF is also limited, which can make it difficult for airlines to access a sufficient amount to meet their needs.
Another issue is the debate over the sustainability of the feedstocks used to produce SAF. While SAF is made from renewable sources, some critics argue that the production of these feedstocks can have negative environmental impacts, such as deforestation and competition with food crops. This raises questions about the true sustainability of SAF and whether it is truly a viable solution for reducing carbon emissions in the long term.
Importance of SAF
A return flight between London and San Francisco has a carbon footprint of nearly 1 tonne of CO2e per economy ticket. With the aviation industry expected to double to over 8 billion passengers by 2050, it's important that we act to reduce aviation’s carbon emissions. One way Air BP is doing that is through SAF.
SAF can be mixed with traditional jet fuel up to 50% and all tests are the same. The blend is then re-certified as Jet A or Jet A-1. It can be used in the same way as traditional jet fuel, so there are no changes needed for aircraft. In 2016, Air BP started selling SAF at Oslo Airport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while sustainable aviation fuel offers many benefits in terms of reducing carbon emissions and improving the environmental impact of the aviation industry, there are also some challenges to consider. The high cost of production, limited supply, and concerns about the sustainability of feedstocks all need to be addressed in order for SAF to become a truly sustainable alternative to traditional jet fuel. Nevertheless, SAF has the potential to play a key role in helping the aviation industry transition to a more sustainable future.
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