Brazil's potential role in aviation’s green revolution

The world of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) might soon witness Brazil rising as a major influencer. Boeing, a leading aircraft manufacturer, recently spotlighted Brazil's potential in driving the aviation industry towards its ambitious net-zero carbon goal by 2050. 

SAF, primarily derived from eco-friendly sources like vegetable oils and waste, plays a critical role. Given Brazil's established reputation in ethanol from corn or sugarcane and biodiesel from soyoil, it seems well-equipped for this green revolution.  

In a forum in Sao Paulo, Boeing's Landon Loomis spoke of Brazil's technical prowess, abundant raw materials, and a skilled workforce ready to tackle the global aviation carbon challenge. 

It's worth noting that Boeing itself is a significant SAF consumer on a global scale. 

But the path to greener skies isn't only paved with high-tech innovations. It also leans heavily on fuels, especially SAF and its synthetic counterparts, which are compatible with today's jet engines. The challenge is ensuring a consistent SAF supply amidst its high costs and slow production trajectory. 

IATA, the International Air Transport Association, envisions SAF as the hero, accounting for almost 65% of the industry's net-zero mission by 2050. Yet, some industry leaders, like the CEO of Qatar Airways, express concerns about achieving this, citing SAF shortages. 

Gol, a Brazilian airline, feels the pressing need for SAF. Their director, Eduardo Calderon, underlines the urgency, warning of the risks of not acting swiftly to ramp up SAF production for the envisioned green future.