Navigating the Skies: Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Policy Impact
Key Ideas
- Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a key focus in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from air travel, with the potential to cut life-cycle carbon emissions by 50% to 94% compared to conventional jet fuel.
- Policies play a crucial role in the adoption of SAF due to its current higher cost compared to fossil-derived jet fuel, as policymakers and the industry seek ways to make low-carbon flight more feasible.
- Michael Helbing, a leader in energy law and policy, will address the challenges and opportunities of sustainable aviation fuel as part of Penn State's EarthTalks series on the legal elements of the energy transition.
- His extensive background in law, science, and policy positions him as a knowledgeable speaker on topics including sustainable aviation fuel, solar policy, hydrogen development, renewable natural gas, and critical minerals.
Michael Helbing, executive director of the Center for Energy Law and Policy at Penn State, will be discussing the topic of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and its impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector. SAF, derived from biomass or low-emissions energy sources, has the potential to significantly decrease carbon emissions by up to 94% compared to traditional jet fuel. However, the current higher cost of SAF poses a challenge to its widespread adoption, making policy decisions crucial in promoting its use. Helbing's presentation will shed light on the importance of policies and industry initiatives in advancing low-carbon flight solutions.
Helbing's involvement in various energy-related projects, including hydrogen development, solar policy, and renewable natural gas, showcases his expertise in the field. His upcoming talk is part of the EarthTalks series at Penn State, focusing on the legal aspects of the energy transition. By addressing the challenges and opportunities of sustainable aviation fuel, Helbing aims to raise awareness about the role of policy in driving sustainable practices in the aviation industry.