A novel pathway for ‘drop-in’ sustainable aviation fuel for net-zero flights
NREL’s formula for SAF from wet waste is compatible with existing jet engines, making it a promising candidate for quickly getting approved by ASTM International. Aircraft stand at a turning point in the race to reduce emissions to mitigate climate change. Although the aircraft sector only accounts for a sliver of transportation-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States—at 9%—it is difficult to decarbonize. With jet fuel demand set to double pre-pandemic levels by 2050 and airlines ramping up pledges to reduce emissions, innovations in fuels, engines, and emerging technologies are critical to closing the gap to net zero.