More than a dozen global corporations have agreed to contribute towards sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in a new programme devised by United Airlines.
The US carrier’s new United Eco-Skies Alliance Program will purchase about 3.4 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel this year.
United claims this fuel represents an 80% emissions reduction compared to conventional jet fuel, and that it is buying enough SAF to eliminate about 31,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, or fly passengers more than 220 million miles.
As inaugural participants, the following companies are taking a lead within their respective industries, reducing their aviation-related impact on the environment at the source, and creating demand for more SAF production.
The companies involved include: Autodesk, Boston Consulting Group, CEVA Logistics, Deloitte, DHL Global Forwarding, DSV Panalpina, HP Inc, Nike, Palantir, Siemens and Takeda Pharmaceuticals
United chief executive Scott Kirby said: “While we’ve partnered with companies for years to help them offset their flight emissions, we applaud those participating in the Eco-Skies Alliance for recognizing the need to go beyond carbon offsets and support SAF-powered flying, which will lead to more affordable supply and ultimately, lower emissions
“This is just the beginning. Our goal is to add more companies to the Eco-Skies Alliance program, purchase more SAF and work across industries to find other innovative paths towards decarbonization.”
United says it has made the airline industry’s single largest investment in SAF and claims to have purchased more SAF than any other airline in the world.
World Energy will supply the SAF to Los Angeles International airport.
Customers traveling with United can also now purchase SAF via a portal on united.com/ecoskiesalliance.
“We know there is a growing demand from a wide range of our customers including corporations, cargo shippers and individuals who share the same concern we do – that climate change is the most pressing issue of our generation,” added Kirby.
United has committed to becoming “100% green” and reducing greenhouse gas emissions 100% by 2050.