Frequently Asked Questions on Sustainable Aviation Fuel
What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel exactly?
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a type of renewable fuel designed to replace conventional jet fuel. It is produced from sustainable feedstocks, such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and other renewable materials. SAF can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout its lifecycle compared to traditional fossil-based jet fuel.
Who is producing SAF?
A number of refineries around the world are producing SAF in Europe, North America, and Asia. Key producers include Neste, World Energy, Phillips 66, and Diamond Green Energy. These companies are leading the way in developing and scaling up SAF production to meet growing demand from the aviation industry.
How does SAF reduce flight emissions?
SAF reduces flight emissions by recycling carbon from the atmosphere, as opposed to releasing new carbon from fossil sources. The lifecycle emissions of SAF are significantly lower, as it is derived from renewable feedstocks. Studies show that SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% when compared to traditional jet fuel over its lifecycle.
Will the SAF that I buy be used on my flight?
Probably not. The SAF that you purchase through SAFplanet.earth will be delivered in bulk to the aviation fuel supply chain at one of several airports where SAF is currently delivered (including SFO, AMS, HEL, SGP, etc). While we cannot guarantee that the specific SAF you buy will be used on your flight, your purchase contributes to the overall availability and use of SAF in the aviation sector.
Is SAF really sustainable?
Yes, it is. By its nature, SAF recycles carbon from the fast carbon cycle, rather than introducing new carbon from the Earth’s crust (as with petroleum-based jet fuel). This process significantly reduces the overall carbon footprint of aviation fuel and contributes to a more sustainable future for air travel.
Does SAF still have emissions?
Yes, SAF does lead to engine emissions similar to those of traditional jet fuel. However, it is claimed to have lower particulate emissions, which can help reduce contrail and cirrus cloud formation—factors that contribute to the greenhouse effect. The emission reductions from SAF are based on a lifecycle approach, considering the renewable feedstocks from which it is made.
Why is 1 SAF credit worth 50 kg of CO2 reduction?
One SAF credit, on SAF Planet, represents a quantified reduction of 50 kg of CO2 emissions based on the lifecycle analysis of SAF compared to conventional jet fuel. This standardization is more relatable to the actual emissions of flying, and helps both individuals and businesses understand their impact better. E.g. 50kg of emissions is approximately a third of the emissions of an average European flight or all of the emissions of a single trip in economy from London to Paris (for which there is a great alternative called train)
How can you safeguard the actual delivery of my SAF?
We ensure the delivery of SAF through partnerships with reputable suppliers and by utilizing a traceable supply chain. All SAF purchases are tracked from production to delivery, providing transparency and assurance that your investment supports sustainable aviation practices.
How do you prevent double claiming of my SAF?
To prevent double claiming, we are making use of a blockchain-based SAF registry where SAF producers, suppliers and airlines collaborate in tracking the SAF across the supply chain. This SAF registry and it’s users (including SAFplanet.earth) adhere to strict standards and instructions with each SAF batch is uniquely registered and tracked, ensuring that no credit is sold or claimed more than once.