EU Presses Ahead with Sustainable Aviation Fuel Initiative, Setting Strict Blending Targets
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EU Presses Ahead with Sustainable Aviation Fuel Initiative, Setting Strict Blending Targets
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carbonology
The European Union (EU) has taken a pivotal step in reducing aviation sector emissions by adopting the ‘ReFuelEU Aviation’ regulation, which sets clear mandates for the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This regulation requires aviation fuel suppliers to gradually increase the blending ratio of SAF with conventional aviation fuels supplied at EU airports.
According to the new rules adopted by the Council of the European Union on October 9, 2023, starting from 2025, all flights departing from EU airports must use fuel with a minimum 2% SAF blending ratio. This ratio will be progressively raised to 6% by 2030, further increased to 20% by 2035, and ultimately reach 70% by 2050.
The European Commission stated that this initiative is a crucial component of the EU's 2050 climate neutrality goal and is expected to significantly reduce aviation-related carbon emissions. It is estimated that by 2050, carbon dioxide emissions from the aviation sector will be reduced by approximately two-thirds compared to scenarios without such measures, while air quality will also be improved. The successful implementation of the ‘ReFuelEU Aviation’ regulation requires close collaboration among all stakeholders in the supply chain, including aviation fuel suppliers, EU airports, and airlines. The new rules will cover over 95% of air transport departing from EU airports.
The EU's strict mandates on SAF blending ratios not only lay out a clear roadmap for the sustainable development of the aviation industry but also set a new benchmark for global aviation emission reduction. This move is expected to inspire more countries and regions to take action and jointly address climate change challenges.