The UK has become the first country to enshrine a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Mandate into law, aiming for 10% of all jet fuel to be sustainable by 2030. Announced on 1st January, the mandate requires at least 2% of jet fuel for UK departures to be sustainable by 2025, with SAF derived from sources like cooking oil and household waste. The move is part of the government’s green aviation strategy to reduce emissions.
Plans include producing 1.2 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2030, enough to fuel 3,000 flights around the globe. Aviation Minister Mike Kane described the mandate as a significant step towards making aviation greener and more sustainable. He highlighted the industry’s growing popularity and its potential to create thousands of jobs within the UK’s SAF sector.
The Jet Zero Task Force, which first met in December, will guide the mandate’s implementation and explore pathways to cleaner aviation. A revenue scheme has also been introduced to attract investment in SAF plants across the UK, ensuring the industry’s growth and innovation.
Industry leaders welcomed the mandate but emphasised the need for expanded feedstock options and cost-reduction measures. Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, stressed that clear revenue mechanisms are essential to scale up SAF production while keeping costs manageable for airlines and consumers.
