Driving Sustainable Aviation: Regulatory Landscapes of the UK, EU, and USA
Key Ideas
- The UK is at the forefront of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) development with mandatory requirements and financial support to position itself as a global leader.
- The Jet Zero Taskforce (JZT) aims to accelerate the transition to net-zero aviation by 2050 and promote SAF development, production, and use.
- The SAF Mandate in the UK includes compulsory SAF supply requirements, buy-out mechanisms for non-compliance, and funding incentives to support industry growth.
- The introduction of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (Revenue Support Mechanism) Bill in 2024 provides revenue certainty for SAF producers investing in UK-based facilities.
The article provides an overview of the regulatory landscapes governing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the UK, EU, and USA. SAF is highlighted as a crucial element in decarbonizing the aviation sector due to its reduction in lifecycle carbon emissions. The UK is actively shaping policies to accelerate SAF adoption, such as the SAF Mandate, which sets mandatory requirements for SAF supply. The Jet Zero Taskforce (JZT) was established to drive net-zero aviation by 2050 and support SAF development. The article details the key terms of the SAF Mandate, including Renewable Transport Fuel Certificates, HEFA Caps, PtL Obligations, and the Buy-out Mechanism. The SAF Revenue Support Mechanism aims to provide revenue certainty for UK-based SAF producers. This analysis offers insights into how regulations are crucial in fostering the growth of SAF and sustainable aviation practices.