- The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce highlighted SAF as a significant innovation opportunity in Rochester.
- SAF can potentially reduce aviation emissions by up to 80% and could create over 220,000 jobs in the Midwest, boosting economic growth.
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has praised two Minnesota congress members for their bipartisan efforts to promote Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). The Chamber recognised United States Representatives, Brad Finstad (R-MN-01) and Angie Craig (D-MN-02), for advancing SAF through the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus.
SAF is a crucial innovation in reducing carbon emissions, potentially cutting aviation-related emissions by up to 80%. The Chamber emphasised the importance of SAF in achieving net-zero emissions for the aviation industry by 2050.
“SAF offers substantial environmental and economic benefits,” said Ryan Parsons, President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce. “Representatives Finstad and Craig’s collaboration shows how bipartisan efforts can drive progress in sustainability and economic growth.”
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association estimates that SAF production could create over 220,000 jobs, generate $9.3 billion in labour income, and contribute more than $70 billion annually to the Midwest economy. The Chamber highlighted how Rochester, already benefiting from advances in healthcare and biotechnology, could see further growth from the SAF industry.
Jonathon Krull, Senior Director of Public Affairs at the Chamber, said, “SAF is the next big opportunity for innovation in our region. Thanks to the leadership of Representatives Finstad and Craig, Minnesota is positioned to be a leader in this transformative industry. Their work demonstrates how bipartisan collaboration can advance sustainability while boosting the local economy.”
The Chamber’s support for SAF reflects its belief in fuel’s potential to shape the future of both the environment and the regional economy. With the backing of local leaders and the momentum from Congress, Rochester is poised to play a vital role in developing sustainable aviation fuels.