There’s a buzz about ‘sustainable’ fuels – but they cannot solve aviation’s colossal climate woes
The global airline industry is rebounding post-COVID-19, with some regions like the Middle East seeing rapid expansion beyond pre-pandemic levels. However, the industry faces a significant challenge in curbing its greenhouse gas emissions, which are projected to contribute 0.1°C of global warming by 2050. Sustainable aviation fuels, derived from biomass and synthetic sources, are touted as a solution. Yet, current research suggests these fuels are not a panacea due to limitations in land and renewable energy resources. Moreover, their production raises environmental concerns and requires substantial energy inputs. Critics argue that while these fuels may aid emissions reduction, current growth plans are unrealistic and may divert resources needed for broader decarbonization efforts in transportation and energy sectors globally.
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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969723025044