Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) offers a game-changing solution for aviation, cutting lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. Made from renewable feedstocks like waste oils, agricultural residues, and green hydrogen-based synthetic fuels, SAF drives both decarbonization and economic innovation. Its credibility, however, relies on robust certification systems to ensure sustainability and compliance with strict environmental, social, and legal standards.
On Dec. 19, 2024, the European Union formally adopted the first three voluntary certification systems for hydrogen: REDcert-EU, ISCC EU, and CertifHy. These frameworks are essential for verifying the environmental credentials of renewable fuels (incl. SAF), ensuring acceptance across all EU Member States. They enable producers to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and build confidence among airlines, investors, and policymakers, fostering the transition to sustainable aviation.
- REDcert-EU voluntary scheme for demonstrating compliance with the requirements for biofuels, bioliquids, biomass fuels, renewable fuels of non-biological origin and recycled carbon fuels.
- ISCC EU (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification) voluntary scheme for forest biomass, renewable fuels of non-biological origin and recycled carbon fuels.
- CertifHy voluntary scheme for demonstrating compliance with the requirements for renewable fuels of non-biological origin.
REDcert-EU: Tailored for RED II Compliance
REDcert-EU is a certification scheme designed to meet the requirements of the Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II), focusing on compliance with European sustainability and traceability standards. It is widely used for certifying SAF derived from feedstocks such as waste oils, fats, and agricultural residues. Notable aspects of REDcert-EU include:
- Flexible Approach: The scheme accommodates a wide range of feedstocks and production pathways.
- Strong EU Focus: Its criteria align closely with European regulations, making it a go-to certification for SAF within the EU.
- Auditing Procedures: Regular audits and detailed documentation ensure rigorous compliance.
By choosing REDcert-EU, SAF producers and suppliers demonstrate their commitment to meeting Europe’s ambitious sustainability goals.
ISCC EU: A Comprehensive Certification System
The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) EU is one of the most recognized schemes for verifying sustainability across diverse sectors, including SAF production. It aligns with the RED II, ensuring that certified fuels meet the required greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions and are produced sustainably. Key features of ISCC EU include:
- Global Applicability: Certification covers feedstocks ranging from agricultural crops to waste and residues.
- GHG Emissions Savings: ISCC EU mandates a minimum 65% reduction in GHG emissions for fuels to qualify.
- Traceability: The system ensures transparency across the supply chain, from feedstock cultivation to fuel production.
ISCC EU’s robust framework makes it a preferred choice for SAF producers aiming to access EU markets and comply with RED II obligations.
CertifHy: Green Hydrogen’s Role in SAF Certification
CertifHy, while primarily focused on green hydrogen certification, is increasingly relevant for SAF produced via Power-to-Liquid (PtL) pathways. This method uses green hydrogen and captured CO2 to create synthetic fuels, making it a promising option for scaling SAF production. Key highlights of CertifHy include:
- Hydrogen Origin Verification: CertifHy certifies hydrogen as renewable or low-carbon based on its production method.
- Market Integration: The scheme facilitates the integration of green hydrogen into SAF supply chains, ensuring transparency and traceability.
- Alignment with EU Standards: CertifHy supports compliance with EU sustainability and GHG reduction targets.
As green hydrogen gains traction in SAF production, CertifHy provides a vital framework for ensuring the credibility of hydrogen-based SAF.
Certifications Driving SAF Adoption and Sustainability
For SAF to gain widespread adoption, it must meet stringent sustainability and regulatory standards. Certifications like REDcert-EU and ISCC EU ensure compliance with RED II, unlocking market access and fostering trust. CertifHy supports emerging hydrogen-based SAF technologies, aligning them with sustainability goals. These certifications enhance global market acceptance, allowing producers to showcase their environmental credentials.
As SAF demand grows, certification will be crucial for scaling production and adoption. Navigating SAF certifications can be complex, but REDcert-EU, ISCC EU, and CertifHy offer clear pathways for sustainability and compliance, supporting SAF’s role in decarbonizing aviation.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general informational purposes only.