New study for cleaner aviation fuel

(PhysOrg.com) -- CSIRO together with Australasia's major aviation players is leading a world-first study to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from air transport by helping to develop a sustainable aviation fuels industry.

Called the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map, the study aims to accelerate the development and commercialisation of a sustainable aviation fuels industry in Australia and New Zealand.

The project has developed in collaboration with the Australasian section of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG) - including Air New Zealand, Boeing, Qantas and Virgin Blue - together with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO).

Aviation accounts for 2 per cent of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions. Cleaner jet fuels derived from plant matter (known as bio-oil) offer the largest single opportunity to reduce emissions while ensuring long-term fuel security for the sector.

The road map will examine the barriers, opportunities and implications of producing bio-derived jet fuels at scale, including: commercial viability; environmental sustainability; and alternative biomass feedstocks (such as algae and more traditional forest and agricultural products) for producing aviation biofuels in the Australasian climate and region.

Aviation is fundamental to the Australian economy and way of life. The tourism industry alone creates jobs for half a million Australians and contributes billions of dollars to our economy.

CSIRO Energy Transformed Flagship's chief economist and road map project leader Mr Paul Graham said:

"The issue is whether we can produce a cost-effective bio-derived jet fuel alternative to fossil fuels that doesn't have any detrimental impacts on the environment or social make-up of regional Australia," Mr Graham said.

"Over the coming months we’re expecting some healthy debate among participants that will result in the development of a diverse set of scenarios for Australia and New Zealand’s aviation fuel future."

The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map gathers an impressive and diverse group of participants from the aviation, science and technology, government and non-government sectors bringing a wealth of experience and many different perspectives relating to the aviation industry.

The study will draw on the expertise of participants and use sophisticated economic modelling to map out future scenarios. It is intended to provide useful input to decision makers in industry and government on strategic policy and future investment, through the release of a public report in September 2010.