What is SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel)?
A: Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a type of aviation fuel derived from sustainable and renewable feedstocks, which can include used cooking oil, agricultural waste, municipal solid waste, non-food crops, forestry residue, and more.
SAF is designed to have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional jet fuels, making it a more environmentally friendly choice for aviation.
How is SAF different from traditional jet fuels?
A: SAF is distinct from conventional jet fuels because it is produced from sustainable and waste-derived sources, while traditional jet fuels are typically derived from crude oil.
SAF's production and use can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a key focus in efforts to make aviation more sustainable.
What is the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)?
A1: The GBA is a recently launched initiative that aims to turn India into a major production and export hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
How much SAF can India potentially produce annually?
A2: India has the capacity to produce 19-24 million tonnes of SAF per year.
What is the estimated maximum SAF requirement in India by 2030?
A3: The estimated maximum SAF requirement, even with a 50% blend, is 8-10 million tonnes per year by 2030.
What is India's plan regarding SAF blending in domestic commercial flights?
A4: India plans to mandate the blending of 1% SAF in all domestic commercial flights within the next two years.
How much SAF would India require by 2025 with 1% SAF blending?
A5: India would need around 140 million litres of SAF per annum by 2025 with 1% SAF blending in jet fuel.
What is the potential impact of SAF on greenhouse gas emissions?
A6: SAF has the potential to reduce aviation-related greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%.
How does India's geographical position offer an advantage for SAF production?
A7: Unlike countries like the United Arab Emirates or Singapore, India's geographical position allows it to establish norms for SAF production and benefit from it.
What are the global goals set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regarding aviation emissions?
A8: ICAO aims for a 2% annual fuel efficiency improvement through 2050, Carbon Neutral Growth from 2020 onwards, and net zero emissions by 2050.
Why is local production of SAF critical for Indian airlines?
A9: Indian airlines will have to offset carbon emissions from international flights starting in 2027, as part of the global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (Corsia).
What are some examples of companies involved in SAF production in India?
A10: Companies like the Indian Oil Corporation and Praj Industries are engaged in SAF production in India.
How can SAF blending benefit the farming sector in India?
A11: SAF blending can benefit over 500,000 farmers who can supply feedstock like sugarcane, and it can generate over 100,000 green jobs.
What is the potential of SAF to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
A12: SAF has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% as it is derived from waste sources.
What is the goal of aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing regarding SAF?
A13: Airbus and Boeing aim to enable 100% SAF capability in their aircraft by 2030.
