In a significant move towards sustainable aviation, Sahara Group has announced a partnership with Air France-KLM, marking a major step in its environmental strategy. The leading energy and infrastructure conglomerate has invested global business travel miles into Air France-KLM’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) program, aiming to offset 20 tons of CO2 emissions and bolster global climate efforts.
This initiative, facilitated by Sahara Energy International, the group’s Geneva-based affiliate, has secured Sahara an official certification as a partner in Air France-KLM’s corporate SAF program. This recognition highlights Sahara Group’s dedication to sustainability and its proactive measures in reducing carbon emissions.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is produced from renewable sources such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and non-fossil CO2. Unlike traditional jet fuel, SAF can reduce emissions by up to 75%, helping airlines to significantly lower their carbon footprint.
During an event at the Air France-KLM office in Geneva, Kola Motajo, Director at Sahara Group, emphasized the importance of SAF in cutting aviation-related emissions and advancing global climate goals. “Our investment in SAF represents more than just a reduction in our carbon footprint; it’s a commitment to the future of aviation. We are thrilled about the positive impact this initiative will have on both the environment and the industry,” Motajo said.
Yanis Yazbek, Account Manager at Air France-KLM, praised Sahara Group’s investment as a major advancement in aviation decarbonization. “Sahara Group’s commitment is a significant milestone. SAF is currently the most viable solution for reducing aviation CO2 emissions, and this investment underscores the importance of supporting innovative technologies for greener travel. With partners like Sahara Group, Air France-KLM can continue advancing SAF research, development, and production,” Yazbek noted.
Ejiro Gray, Director of Governance and Sustainability at Sahara Group, highlighted the alignment of this partnership with the company’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. “Supporting the SAF program is a key step in our journey towards a cleaner and greener future,” Gray said.
Foluso Sobanjo, Head of Downstream, Africa at Sahara Group, added, “Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our ISO certifications. As a leader in the aviation fuel sector, we are proud to be an official partner in Air France-KLM’s SAF program. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity to further contribute to a cleaner and safer aviation industry.”
With the aviation sector responsible for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, the adoption of SAF is seen as crucial for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Increased investment in SAF could enable the production of up to 500 million metric tons annually from advanced and waste feedstocks by 2030.
