The air cargo industry at a crossroads with regard to sustainability. While airlines and logistical services companies are committed to reducing their carbon imprint, one of the largest road barriers is still providing and sustainable flight (SAF).
This issue occupied the lead center during a panel discussion at the Global Cargo Summit (WCS) in Ostend, where industrial leaders treated SAF challenges and what should happen to make it an applicable solution for the future.
The gap between SAF ambitions and reality
SAF has been widely upgraded as a aviation rescue key, providing less carbon emissions of up to 80 percent compared to traditional aircraft fuel. However, the reality is blatant – the current production levels are not anywhere near what is required to meet global demand. With the European Union imposed on a mixture of SAF by 2 percent by 2025 and aimed at 65 percent by 2050, the industry faces a supply crisis.
Anna Maria Kirchner, Head of Global Sales, Vinier Carbo, highlighted that although SAF is sufficient to meet today’s requirements, the expansion to meet future mandate will be very difficult without significant investments. “We need more refineries, more technological developments, and a wider mix of rafs for the production of SAF efficiently,” I noticed.
One of the main barriers that prevent the adoption of SAF is its high cost. Currently, SAF is more expensive than five times the fuel of traditional aircraft, which makes it not possible financially to many airlines and shipping operators. Dr. Fabiano Pesino, head of global sustainability, Kuehne + Nagel, stressed that although airlines are ready to invest, they cannot afford the financial burden alone. “Governments need to provide incentives, benefits and policy frameworks that make SAF a competitive alternative to the cost,” he said. DRS. Fernsen Caron, founder of Esg-Consultance NV, noted that although corporate customers are calling for green solutions, they are not always ready to pay the SaF transport installment.
She said: “The obligations are strong in principle, but the industry needs mechanisms that make green options economically.” Another main challenge is the lack of SAF production facilities. Currently, the majority of SAF is produced using waste cooking oils and animal fats, but these raw material supplies are limited.
The players agreed that to really expand the SAF range, the industry must explore alternative sources, such as: PTL)-creation of artificial SAF using broken carbon and renewable energy. Algae-based fuel-a long-term promising solution with high energy density and sustainability. Biomass to liquid (BTL)-converting forests and agricultural waste into sustainable fuel. However, building and certifying these new production methods will take years, if not contracts.
The committee stressed the urgent need to invest in research and development to accelerate the development of SAF. SAF adoption is also hindered by unlimited global regulations. While Europe has played a leading role in imposing SAF delegations, other regions lack clear policies. This contrast creates uncertainty for airlines and logistical service providers operating across international markets. Kirchner urged: “We need global compatibility with SAF incentives and systems.
“The fragmented approach will slow progress and increase costs.”
Domain 3 emissions
One of the most urgent issues raised during the discussion was 3 emissions, which represent indirect emissions from the supply chain partners. Many logistical services companies are struggling to measure these emissions and report them accurately, which makes it difficult to determine realistic goals.
Piccinno emphasized the need for more cooperation between airlines and preparing shipping and organizers to create transparent business frameworks. “If we do not have the alignment at the industry level on the 3 -year emissions, the sustainability efforts will remain fragmented.”
What should happen?
The committee agreed that the solution to a SAF crisis requires a multi -storey approach, including: increasing government support – policies that support SAF production and reduce the cost gap with traditional fuel. Investing in alternative raw materials-expansion behind waste oils to more developmental options such as artificial fuel and algae. The strongest industry cooperation – airlines, logistics service providers and organizers must work together to create the supply chain solutions. Carbon pricing mechanisms are clearer – ensuring customer understanding the real cost of emissions and stimulating the most green options.
