In today’s world, sustainability is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. As businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprints and align with global climate goals, innovative solutions are emerging to address emissions in traditionally “hard-to-abate” sectors. The aviation industry, responsible for approximately 2-3% of global CO2 emissions, is one such sector. With limited mitigation options and growing pressure to decarbonize, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has become a game-changing solution for reducing the environmental impact of air travel.
This blog explores how companies across various industries can leverage SAF certificates (SAFc) to address aviation-related emissions, align with sustainability commitments, and lead in the global push for greener skies.
Understanding the SAF Opportunity
SAF is an alternative to traditional fossil-based jet fuel, produced from sustainable feedstocks such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and municipal solid waste. It offers significant environmental advantages, with lifecycle carbon emissions reduced by up to 90% compared to conventional jet fuel. Additionally, SAF reduces particulate matter and sulfur emissions, improving local air quality around airports.
Key benefits of SAF include:
- Lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions: Potential reductions of 70-90% compared to fossil jet fuels.
- Compatibility with existing infrastructure: SAF can be used in current aircraft engines and fueling systems without modifications.
- Support for green economies: SAF production fosters green job creation and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Energy diversification: Utilizing waste streams and renewable feedstocks enhances energy security.
While SAF offers clear environmental advantages, its uptake has been hindered by cost and supply challenges. This is where SAF certificates (SAFc) provide an innovative solution.
What Are SAF Certificates (SAFc)?
SAF certificates are a mechanism that allows businesses to claim the environmental benefits of SAF without directly purchasing or physically using the fuel. Using a book-and-claim model, these certificates represent verified emissions reductions achieved through SAF production and use.
For corporates that depend on aviation for business travel or goods transport, SAF certificates are a practical way to offset emissions while sending a strong demand signal to the SAF market. By decoupling the environmental benefits from the physical use of SAF, certificates make it easier for non-aviation companies to contribute to aviation’s decarbonization efforts.
Getting Started with SAF Certificates
For businesses considering SAF certificates, the journey often begins with taking steps to reduce emissions. These might include:
- Choosing efficient travel routes.
- Implementing travel policies favoring alternative, less carbon-intensive modes of transport.
- Partnering with airlines that operate newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft.
However, some aviation-related emissions are unavoidable. For these residual emissions, SAF certificates offer a scalable and impactful solution. Here’s how businesses can get started:
- Educate and Define Objectives:
- Understand the types of SAF and sustainability criteria that align with your corporate goals.
- Assess how SAF certificates can fit into your emissions reduction strategy, such as offsetting business travel, corporate jet use, or freight-related emissions.
- Plan and Strategize:
- Determine whether the SAFc will address Scope 1 or Scope 3 emissions (e.g., business travel or transportation).
- Integrate SAF certificates into broader sustainability goals, considering the company’s emissions profile and alternatives for mitigation.
- Build the Business Case:
- Outline the benefits of SAFc purchases for internal stakeholders.
- Highlight how SAF certificates align with corporate identity, values, and market leadership goals.
Crafting a Strong Business Case for SAFc
Building internal support for SAF certificate purchases often requires a tailored approach. Here are proven strategies for securing buy-in:
1. Set an Internal Carbon Price
Implementing a carbon pricing mechanism (e.g., $150/tonne of CO2) helps quantify the cost of emissions and prioritize mitigation measures. Companies can either:
- Collect funds internally to invest in emissions-reducing initiatives.
- Use a shadow price for decision-making without actual financial transactions.
2. Link to Core Business Priorities
Connecting SAFc purchases to your company’s operations, goals, and market opportunities enhances their perceived value. For instance:
- Financial institutions can leverage SAF knowledge to inform investment decisions in renewable fuels.
- Consulting firms can integrate SAF expertise into their sustainability advisory services.
- Logistics companies can position themselves as low-emissions providers by utilizing SAFc for goods transport.
3. Align with Company Values
SAF certificates are more than a carbon reduction tool—they are a testament to innovation, collaboration, and accountability. Businesses can emphasize:
- Innovation: Supporting SAF scaling fosters new technologies and sustainable industries.
- Market Transformation: Purchasing SAFc sends a demand signal, encouraging widespread adoption.
- Leadership: Early adoption positions companies as pioneers in sustainability.
4. Engage Stakeholders Early
To avoid roadblocks, involve legal, accounting, HR, and marketing teams from the outset. Ensuring clarity on documentation, reporting standards, and branding opportunities fosters smoother implementation.
5. Start Small and Scale
For companies hesitant about larger commitments, beginning with smaller SAFc purchases allows for experimentation and learning. Insights gained from initial efforts can refine long-term strategies.
6. Secure C-Level Support
Having a senior leader champion the SAFc initiative accelerates decision-making and signals its importance as a corporate priority.
The Impact of SAFc Adoption
Purchasing SAF certificates offers businesses a chance to lead by example in the fight against climate change. Beyond direct emissions reductions, SAFc commitments yield multiple benefits:
- Enhanced ESG Ratings: Demonstrating proactive emissions management strengthens sustainability credentials.
- Reputation Boost: Consumers and stakeholders increasingly value businesses that take tangible climate action.
- Market Influence: Supporting SAF development contributes to the aviation sector’s broader transition to net-zero emissions.
By investing in SAF certificates, companies play a vital role in decarbonizing aviation while aligning with global sustainability trends.
Conclusion: A Forward-Thinking Commitment
Sustainable Aviation Fuel certificates represent a forward-looking solution for non-aviation businesses seeking to address Scope 3 emissions. They offer an accessible, flexible pathway to reduce the climate impact of business travel and transportation while supporting the growth of a critical industry innovation.
In an era of heightened accountability and climate urgency, companies that embrace SAF certificates not only mitigate their carbon footprints but also demonstrate leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to building a sustainable future. As the demand for responsible business practices continues to grow, SAF certificates stand out as a powerful tool for making a lasting environmental impact.
Let’s take flight towards a greener future—together
Download Building the business case for SAF white paper here !