What does ICAO's new global standard mean for Sustainable Aviation Fuels?
Key Points
- 1The ICAO Global Framework sets a collective aspirational goal to reduce international aviation CO2 emissions by 5% by 2030.
- 2The standard utilizes CORSIA's sustainability criteria, mandating a minimum 10% net reduction in life-cycle GHG emissions for eligible fuels.
- 3Despite production doubling in 2024 to 1.3 billion liters, Sustainable Aviation Fuel still accounts for only 0.3% of global jet fuel use.
- 4SAF is projected to provide up to 65% of the emissions reductions needed for the industry's net-zero by 2050 target.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has officially adopted a new global standard for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). This move is a critical step toward realizing the industry's ambitious climate goals. The standard is part of the broader ICAO Global Framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuels. This framework aims to promote the widespread adoption of SAF and reduce aviation's carbon footprint.
SAF is widely viewed as the most important tool for aviation decarbonization. It is projected to provide up to 65% of the emissions reductions needed to reach net-zero by 2050. The new standard provides a globally harmonized approach for SAF use.
The Global Framework's Core
The ICAO Global Framework was agreed upon by 193 Member States at the Third ICAO Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3). It sets a collective global aspirational Vision for the sector. This vision is to reduce CO2 emissions in international aviation by 5% by 2030. This reduction is measured against a baseline of zero cleaner energy use.
The framework is structured around four key building blocks:
- Policy and planning to guide national strategies.
- Regulatory frameworks, including the new standards.
- Implementation support for developing countries.
- Financing to unlock necessary investment.
This structure provides a comprehensive roadmap for governments and industry stakeholders.
Sustainability Criteria and CORSIA
The new standard establishes strict criteria for what qualifies as Sustainable Aviation Fuel. These criteria are integrated with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). Airlines using SAF that meets these requirements can claim associated reductions in their CORSIA offsetting obligations.
Key Details of the Criteria
To be considered eligible, SAF must meet several environmental and social safeguards.
- GHG Emissions: A minimum 10% net reduction against life-cycle emissions benchmarks is required.
- Feedstock Sourcing: There are restrictions on using biomass from ecologically sensitive zones.
- Social Dimensions: Criteria cover respect for land rights and labor standards.
This ensures that the fuel's production does not simply shift environmental problems elsewhere. The criteria also cover Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), though LCAF is not labeled as “sustainable fuel”.
Industry Challenges and Outlook
The adoption of this standard sends a strong demand signal to the energy market. However, the commercial aviation sector faces significant challenges in scaling production.
Data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that SAF production reached 1 million tonnes (1.3 billion liters) in 2024. This volume doubled the output from 2023. Despite this growth, SAF still accounts for only 0.3% of global jet fuel production.
High cost and limited feedstock availability remain the primary obstacles. Airlines, like those purchasing new fuel-efficient aircraft from manufacturers such as Airbus, are committed buyers. However, the industry needs clear, consistent government policies and strategic incentives to drive investment.
Major regulators, including the European Union and the United Kingdom, have already implemented regional mandates. The EU's ReFuelEU Aviation mandates a 2% minimum SAF blend by 2025. This global standard from ICAO provides the necessary international foundation. It helps to prevent a patchwork of conflicting national regulations. This harmonization is essential for a global industry overseen by bodies like EASA.
For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit https://flying.flights.
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Written by
Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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