Over sixty companies, spanning carriers, fuel companies, and airports, pledged to embrace Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), aiming to constitute 10% of the global aviation fuel supply by 2030. Shifting towards SAF, as opposed to crude oil, holds the potential to steer the air freight sector towards achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a greener alternative to traditional aviation fuel, has become a pivotal player in addressing the air cargo industry’s sustainability goals. Recognized by UPS as the sole path to decarbonization for the air cargo sector, SAF, derived from biofuels, shares a chemical identity with conventional jet fuel. It is considered a game-changer in the industry’s commitment to lowering carbon emissions, with some carriers successfully incorporating SAF into their operations by safely mixing it with 50% kerosene. Synthesized SAF is widely acknowledged as the enduring solution for mitigating the aviation sector’s environmental impact, boasting the potential to reduce emissions by up to 80%.
Join us in today’s post as we delve into the strides made by the air freight industry in decarbonization through the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel.
How the use of SAF can decarbonize the air freight industry
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) presents a significant opportunity for the air cargo industry to make substantial strides in enhancing sustainability. With the potential to reduce net carbon emissions by approximately 80% compared to traditional jet fuel, SAF is a key player in the industry’s quest for greener practices. Moreover, ongoing research by scientists explores the possibility of SAF formulations capable of absorbing more carbon dioxide than they release, further elevating its environmental benefits.
SAF is derived from fatty acids and hydro-processed esters. Bio SAF, sourced from feedstocks and low-carbon waste products, undergoes a refining process that transforms used cooking oils, fats, and waste oil into a viable aviation fuel. Beyond its environmental benefits, SAF presents a solution to the perpetual challenge of rising fuel costs in the air freight sector. Additionally, the cultivation of feedstocks in developing countries can turn them into potential producers of sustainable aviation fuel. With estimates suggesting that mass production of SAF could generate 14 million jobs and establish a new global energy industry, the potential socioeconomic impact is substantial.
Air freight forwarders aligning with carriers utilizing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) are poised to embark on more significant sustainability initiatives. Major players in the air freight industry, including multinational corporations, are forging partnerships with leading carriers and SAF producers to increase the adoption of SAF. This collaborative effort not only assists customers in achieving carbon-neutral shipping but also results in the issuance of certificates specifying the reduced amount of CO2 emissions. In essence, the integration of SAF empowers air freight forwarders to meet carbon emission reduction targets, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of shipments by up to 90%.
Factors hindering the widespread use of SAF
The widespread adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the aviation sector faces two formidable challenges: high costs and limited supply. Both fuel companies and airlines are hesitant to make the initial investment required for decarbonization, as SAF presently stands three times more expensive than traditional jet fuel. Although the cost is expected to decrease with scaled-up production, fuel companies remain cautious due to low demand and investment uncertainty. Furthermore, the insufficient supply of sustainable feedstock poses a significant hurdle, as the availability of a steady source is crucial for making SAF commercially viable and advancing the path to decarbonization.
What the future of sustainability in the air freight sector looks like
The broad acceptance of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) hinges heavily on government initiatives and investments. Despite its critical role in the international jet fuel supply, SAF currently constitutes less than 1% of the total fuel utilized by commercial carriers, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to bolster its production and integration into the aviation industry. Therefore, the governing bodies need to provide a boost to investor confidence without which the carriers will never take the first step in stepping up their sustainability efforts. Additionally, the decarbonization endeavour will necessitate a huge scaling-up of the production of SAF along with the building of appropriate infrastructure and the creation of commercial partnerships.
Moreover, the carriers must transition from older freighters to more energy-efficient models, aiming to slash emissions by nearly 20%. Achieving the 2030 targets heavily relies on the pivotal role of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), demanding substantial investments not only in SAF production but also in scientific research. Glyn Hughes, Director General of the International Air Cargo Association, emphasizes the necessity for government bodies to offer subsidies and invest in the research and development of sustainable aviation fuel to drive down production costs.