The aviation sector has recently intensified efforts to explore alternative fuel sources. While substantial progress has been made, persistent greenhouse gas emissions underscore the urgency of advancing these initiatives.
Mark Westwood from the Cranfield Centre of Aeronautics highlights the industry’s shift towards alternative fuels, yet acknowledges the ongoing rise in atmospheric greenhouse gases. Action remains critical to curb this trend.
Industry’s Initial Steps Towards Alternative Fuels
In recent years, the aviation industry has dramatically altered its approach towards adopting alternative fuels. Mark Westwood from Cranfield Centre of Aeronautics noted how, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, discussions on alternative fuels were minimal. However, the industry has now started prioritising these sustainable solutions to address environmental concerns.
The atmospheric story reveals a continuous increase in greenhouse gas concentrations over the past year, a fact that elevates the importance of operational efficiencies in mitigating emissions.
Operational Efficiencies as Top Priority
Operational efficiencies represent the current highest priority for emission reduction. Improvements in air traffic management, zero-emission ground vehicles, and optimising auxiliary power unit usage onboard aircraft are critical steps.
Every tonne of CO2 saved today prevents it from lingering in the atmosphere for the next century.
Role and Challenges of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Sustainable aviation fuel stands as the second priority in reducing aviation emissions.
SAF is lauded for its ‘drop-in’ capability, requiring minimal modification to existing technology, making it an attractive interim solution.
Despite its potential, the scalability of SAF production faces numerous hurdles, including chain economics, land use, and competition for feedstock resources.
Synthetically produced liquid hydrocarbons, or ‘power-to-liquid’ fuels, surface as promising. Yet, widespread adoption necessitates substantial renewable energy resources.
Hydrogen: The Future of Aviation Fuel?
Hydrogen emerges as the third focal point for alternative aviation fuels, presenting a potentially transformative solution.
However, numerous production, storage, and transport challenges remain unresolved. Western nations, including the UK, have potential for leadership in hydrogen research and application.
Cranfield’s recent £69 million investment in hydrogen research highlights the significance placed on resolving these barriers.
Impact of Global Demand on Emission Reduction
Despite forceful advancements and innovations, aviation emissions remain an ongoing challenge due to rising global demand.
Andrew Chadwick from the Connected Places Catapult points out that without rapid improvements in efficiency and a switch to low-carbon fuels, emissions will keep escalating.
Non-CO2 effects exacerbate the industry’s environmental impact, with aviation contributing around 5% to global warming.
Commercial Realities and Industry Efforts
The narrative that the aviation industry has yet to act on emission reduction is challenged by industry leaders.
Neil Cloughley of Faradair Aerospace notes the significant advancements in engine technology that have resulted in cleaner operations.
While much progress has been achieved, continuous commitment to innovation and strategic investments are essential for future success.
Aviation as a Major Polluter
Despite efforts, aviation remains a significant contributor to global greenhouse emissions. If considered a country, aviation would rank as the sixth largest polluter globally, according to industry assessments.
Only a tiny fraction of the population contributes to the majority of aviation emissions, necessitating a broader strategy that addresses both frequent flyers and the industry’s environmental footprint.
In conclusion, while notable progress has been made in adopting alternative fuels, the aviation industry must continue its efforts to curb emissions. Ongoing advancements in sustainable aviation practices are crucial to mitigating the sector’s environmental impact.
Achieving substantial emission reductions requires a combined focus on operational improvements, SAF, and hydrogen technology, alongside broader industry collaboration and investment.
