Feasible fuel not from food

Feasible fuel not from food

Defence Science and Technology Organisation

"Substantial quantities of aviation fuel derived from non-food biomass could be economically produced over the next 20 years." Image: narvikk/iStockphoto A study, supported by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, has found bio-derived jet fuel is a feasible future option for Australia. “Flight Path to Sustainable Aviation” was released yesterday by the CSIRO and found that substantial quantities of aviation fuel derived from non-food biomass could be economically produced over the next 20 years.  The report also predicted that greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by 17 per cent over that time frame. The study was commissioned by and developed in collaboration with the members of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group– including Air New Zealand, Boeing, Qantas and Virgin Australia – together with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the Climate Group.  The study drew on key aviation stakeholders including OEMS, fuel and feedstock producers, government departments and NGO’s DSTO’s Dr Chris Hulston said “the study is an important step in the development of a sustainable fuel industry in Australia, which will assist the Australian Defence Force in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, while also improving Australia’s fuel security.” It stipulates that sustainable fuel must be economically viable and made from sources that do not impact food production (e.g. crop stubble, municipal waste, algae and non food plantations or crops). More information, including the report, can be found on the CSIRO website.