UK Implements SAF Mandate as Part of its Jet Zero Strategy
As part of its Jet Zero Strategy to achieve "net zero" emissions from flights by 2050, the UK government will adopt a new mandate for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The policy, revealed at the Farnborough International Airshow, stipulates that at least 10% of jet fuel must be derived from sustainable sources by 2030.
The government aims to have at least five "commercial scale" SAF facilities under development in the UK by 2025 as part of the Jet Zero programme.
In addition to being able to apply for help from the $165 million Advanced Fuels Fund, companies implementing SAF projects will also be eligible for assistance from the $165 million Advanced Fuels Fund.
In addition, the government has pledged that all English airports would be zero-emission by 2040 and that UK domestic aviation would reach net zero emissions by 2040.
In addition, the strategy includes a plan for the aviation industry to maintain emissions below pre-COVID levels using a variety of approaches, including "system efficiencies" and new technology.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “We want 2019 to be remembered as the peak year for aviation emissions. From now on, it should all be downhill for carbon emissions—and steadily uphill for green flights.
“The UK is setting an example of the ambition needed to tackle climate change, and the Jet Zero Strategy provides a clear path to building a greener aviation sector for generations to come.
“Rather than clipping the sector’s wings, our pathway recognises that decarbonisation offers huge economic benefits, creating the jobs and industries of the future and making sure UK businesses are at the forefront of this green revolution.”
The Jet Zero Strategy includes six priority areas: improving the efficiency of the existing aviation system, increasing support for SAF by creating and growing demand, supporting the development of zero-emission aircraft, developing carbon markets and greenhouse gas removal technology, and providing consumers with better information to make sustainable travel decisions and enhance understanding of aviation's non-CO2 impacts.
Following the work of the Jet Zero Council, which brings together ministers, industry executives, and academics to debate how to reduce aviation emissions, a new strategy has been devised.
Emma Gilthorpe, CEO of the Jet Zero Council, said:
“This is a key milestone on the path to decarbonising aviation, setting the framework for the Jet Zero Council to continue its great progress on sustainable aviation fuels and zero emission flight, and providing key policies to get us there, including a SAF mandate.”
Charlie Cornish, CEO of Manchester Airport Group, added:
“We are proud to play a leading role in the Jet Zero Council, which brings together government and industry to share ideas and innovation to ensure we make this strategy a reality.”
Source: Business Travel News Europe
