- SAF production can create jobs in agriculture, energy, and transportation, reducing poverty and boosting energy independence.
- South Africa can leverage abundant feedstocks and refinery infrastructure for SAF production, offering significant export potential.
- IATA urges a focus on utilising current facilities, fostering collaborations, and developing new biorefineries to enhance SAF capabilities.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged South Africa to accelerate the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The call came at Johannesburg’s IATA Wings of Change Focus Africa conference.
Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Sustainability and Chief Economist, stressed South Africa’s potential in SAF production. “South Africa has a waiting market for SAF as airlines target net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This isn’t just about decarbonising aviation; it’s an economic growth strategy and should be a government priority,” Thomsen said. She noted this could create agriculture, energy, and transportation jobs, reduce poverty, and increase energy independence.
South Africa chaired the 2022 ICAO Assembly, setting a goal of net-zero aviation emissions by 2050. ICAO aims for a 5% reduction in aviation carbon emissions by 2030, highlighting SAF’s role in this plan.
Thomsen emphasised the strong demand for SAF, noting, “Airlines buy every drop of SAF produced.” However, production volumes fall short. She urged governments, including South Africa, to seize this “win-win-win opportunity” for economic growth, energy transition, and cleaner air transport.
A World Wildlife Fund (WWF) study highlights several advantages for South Africa in SAF production:
Abundant Feedstocks: South Africa can produce SAF from sugarcane by-products and biomass from invasive alien plants (IAPs). Harvesting IAPs also enhances biodiversity and water security without competing with food production.
High Production Potential: WWF estimates South Africa could produce 3.2 to 4.5 billion litres of SAF annually, surpassing domestic demand and creating export opportunities.
Existing Infrastructure: South Africa’s refineries offer opportunities for SAF production through plant conversions or co-processing.
Synthetic Fuel Expertise: South Africa’s history in synthetic fuel production and solid academic institutions can drive SAF innovations.
Key Airports: OR Tambo International and Cape Town International airports are crucial hubs for flights within Africa and globally.
IATA recommends a strategic plan to enhance South Africa’s SAF production:
Leverage Existing Infrastructure: Use current facilities to scale up SAF production.
Foster Collaboration: Combine resources and expertise from the government, private sector, and international partners.
Encourage Innovation: Provide tax incentives, grants, and subsidies for SAF research and development.
Develop New Infrastructure: Offer incentives for biorefineries and green hydrogen production facilities.
IATA’s call highlights the urgency and opportunity for South Africa to lead in SAF production, aligning economic growth with sustainable aviation goals.