Boeing joins forces to further biofuel development
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Boeing has announced that it will join forces with air carriers and Honeywell’s UOP, a refining technology developer, to accelerate the development of sustainable new aviation fuels. The venture will also take advice from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
The group’s aim is to enable the commercial use of renewable fuel sources that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while lessening commercial aviation’s dependence on fossil fuels, and thus, volatile oil prices. Airlines supporting the initiative include KLM-Air France, Air New Zealand, ANA, Gulf Air, Japan Airlines, SAS and Virgin Atlantic. Collectively, they account for approximately 15% of commercial jet fuel use, according to Boeing.
“We welcome the aviation sector’s will to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and appreciate their efforts to ensure the sustainability of their biofuels sourcing,” said Jean-Philippe Denruyter, WWF Global Bioenergy Coordinator.
Additionally, all members subscribe to a pledge that any sustainable biofuel must perform as well as, or better than, kerosene-based fuel, but with a smaller carbon lifecycle.
“The number one priority going forward is to complete thorough assessments of sustainable plant sources, harvesting and economic impacts, and processing technologies that can help achieve that goal.” said Billy Glover, Managing Director, Environmental Strategy for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
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