UAE is ramping up efforts on SAF production: Masdar, Adnoc, Emirates Airways, and Tadweer will conduct a joint feasibility study with BP on the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) by using solid waste and renewable hydrogen, according to a statement. The study will also explore the possibility of producing other products including renewable diesel and naphtha. Based on the results of the study, the companies could potentially set up the region’s first commercial-scale SAF production facility in Abu Dhabi.

Other UAE players are getting in on SAFs: Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Energy, Pakistani-Arab Refinery PARCO and Austrian OMV Group are also jointly exploring sustainable aviation fuels, Wam reports.

SOUND SMART- SAFs are low-carbon alternatives to traditional jet fuel made of mustard seeds, soy beans, and non-edible oils, according to Honeywell Aerospace. Despite the growing demand for SAFs it remains an expensive alternative to conventional jet fuel according to a report (pdf) by the Riyadh-based King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center.

IN OTHER SUSTAINABLE AVIATION NEWS- Etihad Airways inked a future carbon credits from contrail management agreement with green aviation firm Satavia according to a statement. The UAE carrier and the UK-based firm’s collaboration will produce future carbon credits by managing contrail activity — short for condensation trails — the ice-particle-filled white lines visible behind airplanes that are responsible for up to 60% of the aviation industry’s climate footprint.