Southeast Asia is on the cusp of becoming a major player in the global sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market. A recent study indicates that the region could potentially supply a remarkable 12% of global SAF demand by 2050, making a significant contribution to the aviation industry’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
The study, which meticulously assessed sustainable feedstocks across 11 Southeast Asian countries, reveals a remarkable potential for SAF production. By 2050, the region could produce approximately 45.7 million metric tons of SAF annually, utilizing a diverse range of bio-based feedstocks and waste materials. This signifies a substantial leap towards a more sustainable future for aviation.
Unblended or “neat” SAF, which consists solely of sustainable fuel and contains no fossil fuels, presents the most promising opportunity to drastically cut aviation carbon emissions. This type of SAF has the potential to reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 84% over the next three decades, offering a truly impactful solution to the industry’s environmental challenges. However, currently, SAF accounts for only 0.2% of global commercial fuel use in 2023, highlighting the immense potential for growth and adoption.
Boeing, a leading aerospace company, is actively engaged in expanding the use of SAF worldwide. Through localized roadmaps and comprehensive feedstock evaluations in partnership with regional stakeholders and governments, Boeing is paving the way for a more sustainable future. Their global initiatives, encompassing efforts in Australia & New Zealand and Japan, align with the ICAO’s Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) Program, demonstrating a collaborative commitment to promoting the adoption of SAF on a global scale.
