All technologies are needed to tackle aviation carbon dioxide emissions – Watch the video interview!

In aviation, it's not a matter of one propulsion system being better than another, but that all are needed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, says Anselm Eisentraut, Head of Market Intelligence and Pricing for Renewable Aviation at Neste. Currently, the trajectory of technological development suggests that Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) could be among the most promising solutions.

– The demand for renewable fuels is soaring, which is a positive sign, says Anselm Eisentraut, Head of Market Intelligence & Pricing at Neste's Renewable Aviation division. In practice, this translates to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).

The acronym SAF stands for 'sustainable aviation fuel.' By altering the chemical composition or production process of the fuel, it is possible to reduce harmful emissions generated during combustion reactions. According to Eisentraut, electric aircraft could operate on short-haul routes, such as to Tallinn. The advantage of SAF today is that it works with the existing fleet.

He hopes to see more guidelines similar to the EU's ReFuelEU Aviation proposal adopted globally. The EU mandate outlines the use of renewable fuels in three aspects: Sustainable aviation fuels must account for a minimum of 2% of all fuels at EU airports by 2025 and 70% by 2050. The new aviation fuel blend in the EU must also include a minimum share of the most advanced and environmentally friendly synthetic fuels, which will increase over time.

Competition exists, as it should in intriguing industries.

Secondly, aircraft users departing from EU airports refuel only the amount of fuel needed for the flight to avoid additional weight from over-fueling or emissions associated with carbon leakage. The idea is to address the intentional refueling of excess fuel to avoid the use of sustainable aviation fuels.

Additionally, airports ensure they have refueling infrastructure suitable for the distribution of sustainable aviation fuels.

Eisentraut applauds Neste for being at the forefront of developing renewable fuel production, but he acknowledges that competition is inherent in intriguing industries.

– Neste remains in a strong position as we have invested four billion euros in production facilities in Singapore and Rotterdam over the past few years, says Eisentraut.