Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) are projected to account for up to 65% of the aviation sector’s net-zero initiatives. These fuels can be produced from a variety of feedstocks, including waste oils, fats, municipal waste, and non-food crops, and are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by as much as 80%. Currently, nine biofuel production pathways have been certified for SAF production, designed as drop-in solutions for existing fuel systems.
Regulatory bodies are beginning to mandate the use of SAF. In October 2023, the European Union adopted the ReFuelEU initiative, which sets a minimum SAF supply requirement of 2% by 2025, escalating to 70% by 2050. Additionally, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) called for a 5% reduction in carbon intensity for international aviation by 2030.
However, the global SAF market is still nascent, with production not meeting demands. In 2023, SAF production doubled to over 0.5 million tonnes (625 million liters), yet this only represents 0.2% of global jet fuel consumption. Projections suggest production could reach 1.5 million tonnes (1.875 billion liters) in 2024, but a staggering 500 million tonnes (625 billion liters) will be necessary by 2050.
One of the challenges facing the industry is the inconsistency in SAF accounting and tracking, with various mechanisms that can impact credibility.
To enhance transparency and create a dynamic global market for SAF, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is developing the SAF Registry. This initiative aims to accurately account for and report emissions reductions from SAF, thereby accelerating its adoption.
“This is a flagship initiative because SAF is crucial to achieving net-zero goals,” said Michael Schneider, IATA’s Assistant Director for Sustainability Programs. He emphasized the need for a reliable global supply of SAF and the importance of verifying its environmental benefits.
The SAF Registry will utilize a Book and Claim model, uniquely involving government participation. This collaboration will aid airlines in meeting regulatory requirements, such as those outlined in the Carbon Offsetting Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, ensuring compliance with SAF mandates.
The Registry will allow airlines to purchase SAF irrespective of its production location, with each batch carrying certified environmental attributes that can be traced to the purchasing airline. This ensures accurate emissions reporting, enabling airlines to account for Scope 1 emissions and corporate clients to track their Scope 3 emissions.
Designed to be adaptable and neutral regarding regulations and SAF types, the SAF Registry will cater to a wide range of user requirements. “We can capture and track information reliably, enabling informed decisions at the receiving end,” Schneider confirmed.
Preparations for the Registry are already underway, with 50 workshops held and pilots scheduled for November 2024 to validate its functionalities. The launch of the SAF Registry is anticipated in the second quarter of 2025, with participation from 25 airlines, 15 producers, 6 governments, and 3 OEMs.
While some administrative work is involved, the SAF Registry will be free for airlines for the first two years, with cost-recovery charges implemented thereafter.
In addition to technical considerations, governance of the SAF Registry will ensure its integrity and adaptability. Schneider noted that stakeholder consultations, including input from airlines, governments, and fuel producers, are essential for developing a robust program. Independent audits will also be incorporated to maintain credibility.
The SAF Registry will collaborate with existing registries to ensure interoperability and standardization, addressing potential issues like double counting. “It’s a challenging task, but credibility is paramount,” Schneider acknowledged, stressing the need for time to refine data-sharing processes.
Ultimately, the SAF Registry aims to fulfill the critical needs of all stakeholders, contributing to the global effort to scale up SAF production. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, emphasized the importance of a trusted system for tracking SAF quality and quantities, allowing producers to accurately account for deliveries while ensuring airlines can claim the environmental benefits of their SAF purchases. By facilitating access to SAF worldwide, the Registry will play a pivotal role in developing a global SAF market.
