Q: What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?
A: SAF is a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuels, derived from sustainable resources such as cooking oils, plant oils, municipal waste, and agricultural residues. Its use can significantly reduce carbon emissions from air travel.
Q: How does SAF contribute to cleaner transport?
A: By reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, SAF helps lower the carbon footprint of the aviation sector, which is crucial for achieving global climate targets and improving air quality.
Q: What progress has India made in adopting SAF?
A: India is taking strides towards integrating SAF into its aviation sector. Efforts include the operation of flights with a blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel, policies encouraging SAF use, and exploring domestic production capabilities.
Q: What are the challenges in the widespread adoption of SAF in India?
A: The main challenges include the high cost of production, limited availability of raw materials, and the need for investment in refining and distribution infrastructure.
Q: What benefits does SAF offer over traditional jet fuel?
A: SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. It also offers better fuel efficiency and can contribute to energy security by diversifying the fuel supply.
Q: Are there any recent developments in India’s use of SAF?
A: Yes, there have been significant developments, such as the launch of flights using a blend of SAF, government initiatives to support SAF research and production, and potential partnerships with international organizations.
Q: What is the future outlook for SAF in India?
A: The outlook is promising as the government and private sector are showing a strong commitment to scaling up SAF production and use. The goal is to make SAF a viable and regular fuel option for airlines, aligning with global sustainability goals.
