On Tuesday, July 2, the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) announced that it has inaugurated the nation’s first technical centre dedicated to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The centre will primarily focus on setting standards and conducting product research.
This marks a significant step towards promoting environmentally friendly aviation practices in China. Located in Chengdu, a major city in southwestern China, the new centre will be crucial in shaping industry policy and establishing standards for SAF products and quality control.
According to two SAF industry executives with direct knowledge of the launch, this initiative is expected to position China as a leader in the global SAF market. China consumes about 11% of the global jet fuel supply as the world’s second-largest aviation market.
This considerable demand underscores the importance of developing sustainable alternatives. In May, Reuters reported that China is anticipated to unveil its SAF policy in 2030, potentially catalyzing billions of dollars in investment. The policy aims to reduce aviation emissions and align with global sustainability goals.
China has conducted only a few test flights using SAF and does not produce the fuel commercially for domestic use. However, biofuel companies are investing over $1 billion to construct the country’s first plants to convert waste cooking oil into aviation fuel.
These facilities are intended to supply both export markets and meet domestic demand once the government mandates using SAF in aeroplanes to curb emissions. The CAAC’s objectives include establishing a Chinese certification system for sustainable fuel.
The new technical centre is also developing test facilities for evaluating new products. According to the aviation regulator’s report, China’s total aviation fuel consumption is projected to exceed 50 million metric tons annually by 2030.
The use of SAF is expected to reach 2.5 million tons per year, highlighting the significant impact this initiative could have on the aviation industry. The CAAC’s move aligns with global trends towards greener aviation fuels.
Sustainable aviation fuel, typically produced from renewable resources such as waste oils, has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel. Establishing the technical centre in Chengdu is a strategic effort to advance China’s capabilities in this domain.
The global aviation industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability, and China’s proactive approach to developing SAF infrastructure and standards is a testament to its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. By investing in SAF research and production, China aims to play a pivotal role in the global transition to greener aviation practices.
With the development of industry policies, standards, and certification systems, China is poised to become a key player in the global SAF market, driving substantial investments and fostering innovation in sustainable aviation technologies.