The aviation sector is banking on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reach net zero emissions by 2050. However, a recent report by Transport & Environment found that in 2022, only 2.6 million barrels of SAF were used, accounting for less than 0.15% of total jet fuel consumption. The report also criticized the quality of the fuel, stating that over 30% of airlines’ sustainable fuel agreements are based on crops like corn, which are not sustainable.
The report highlights the need for e-fuels, which can be made from municipal waste, used cooking oils, and animal waste products. Additionally, e-kerosene, a type of synthetic fuel, is being developed using renewable energy and can be chemically identical to conventional jet fuel.
The report notes that e-fuel is a more promising solution, with the potential to significantly reduce emissions. However, the industry is still far from achieving its goals, and other alternatives such as electric flight and improved SAF supply chain sustainability are being explored. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also announced funding for sustainable aviation fuel projects, and electric aircraft technology is being developed. Overall, while progress is slow, there is cause for optimism in the pursuit of sustainable flight.