United Airline’s recent declaration showcases a bright future for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). They're on course to use 10 million gallons in 2023, a ten-fold increase from 2019. The move isn't just about being eco-friendly, it’s also about ensuring that corn growers remain significant in a world tilting towards electric vehicles.
With the Inflation Reduction Act, The President’s team envisions an America producing 3 billion gallons of SAF each year by 2030, underlining a commitment to a greener future. However, this vision isn't without its disagreements, especially when it comes to determining SAF's actual environmental benefits. "The tax credits, pivotal for eco-fuels, could decide the fate of corn ethanol in SAF,” says Jim Wiesemeyer, an expert from ProFarmer.
The main disagreement is about measuring emissions from these fuels. While the ethanol industry leans towards the GREET model by the Department of Energy, the International Civil Aviation Organization's method is preferred by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Environmental champions stand by the Corsia standard, emphasizing land-use changes. They believe championing ethanol could overshadow the need for newer, more eco-efficient SAF alternatives. Amidst these debates, the White House finds itself in a quandary, unable to pick between the GREET and Corsia methods.
“Despite the debate, if ethanol gets the green light with tax credits, it could change the SAF landscape, making it more affordable for airlines and helping them meet emission standards without breaking the bank,” Wiesemeyer added.
Source : wisconsinagconnection