Charting a Course to Net Zero:

Decarbonizing the Aviation Sector

Acknowledging its substantial role in climate change, the aviation industry is setting out on an ambitious mission to decarbonize. The sector has united in a commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with several airlines aiming to achieve this goal even earlier, by 2040.

Currently, aviation is responsible for approximately 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions, primarily due to its dependence on fossil-based fuels. If the industry continues on its current trajectory, it could account for up to 22% of global emissions by 2050. This underscores the critical importance of adopting sustainable strategies and climate solutions, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), to meet decarbonization targets.

Aviation must embrace sustainability strategies and various climate solutions to avoid contributing 22% of global emission by 2050.

A Global Challenge

The aviation sector faces significant hurdles on its path to decarbonization. The industry’s growth, fueled by increasing demand for air travel, remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, making the shift to alternative energy sources a complex endeavor. When considering the impact of contrails—the trails of condensed water vapor produced by jet engines—aviation’s contribution to global warming rises to 4%. This highlights the urgent need for action to align with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% and is compatible with current aircraft.

The Regulatory Framework

Achieving net-zero emissions will require stricter regulations and robust compliance measures. Governments around the world are implementing initiatives like the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to cap net CO₂ emissions from international flights. These policies hold the aviation industry accountable for reducing its carbon footprint and encourage accelerated progress toward sustainability.

Scaling SAF requires significant investment, research, and collaboration among airlines, fuel producers, and governments.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

Decarbonizing aviation demands a multifaceted sustainability strategy. Airlines and the broader industry must invest in several key areas, including modernizing fleets, advancing technology, improving operational efficiencies across the board, and increasing the adoption of SAF. Additionally, certified climate projects focused on reducing or removing carbon emissions will play a vital role in airlines’ comprehensive climate strategies.

The Transformative Potential of SAF

Sustainable aviation fuel stands out as a pivotal short-term solution for decarbonizing aviation. Produced from renewable sources such as biomass, algae, and waste materials, SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. Importantly, SAF is compatible with existing aircraft, making it a practical and immediate option for the industry.

However, SAF currently makes up less than 1% of global jet fuel demand. To meet the net-zero target by 2050, SAF usage must grow to 13-15% by 2040. Achieving this will require the construction of 300-400 new SAF production facilities. Scaling up SAF adoption, production, and distribution will demand significant investment, research, and development, as well as collaboration among airlines, fuel producers, and governments.

Decarbonizing the aviation industry is essential for building a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. Despite the challenges and the substantial investments required, SAF remains one of the most effective solutions available today to drive meaningful change.