Sustainability and Environment

A shortage of European feedstocks for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) will limit European aviation’s ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from 2035 onwards. This is one of the main conclusions of a new study by Royal NLR and Delft University of Technology. This shortage means that greenhouse gas emissions will only be 40% lower in 2050 compared to a situation with aircraft powered solely by fossil kerosene, whereas sufficient SAF availability could double this reduction.

Twenty transport organisations and centres of expertise published an action plan together in 2018 for reducing CO₂ emissions in aviation entitled ‘Slim én duurzaam’ (Smart and Sustainable). This was followed by two addenda giving a picture of the activities and the results achieved. A third update has been made available today reflecting the current state of affairs.

The Dutch aviation sector has submitted a joint proposal to appeal to the National Growth Fund. With the ‘Aviation in Transition’ proposal, the sector focuses on research and development geared towards climate neutral aviation. It has since been announced that € 383 million has been awarded (partly conditionally).

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Royal Schiphol Group, Airbus, Royal NLR and TU Delft are entering into a close co-operation to develop the technology needed for climate-neutral flights in 2050. To mark the start of the Flying Vision joint initiative, the five parties signed a partnership agreement on Monday evening, 11 April.