23d139-clean-aviation

ACAF Thanks President Trump and Congressional Republicans for Including Clean Aviation Fuels in OBBB

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 19:02:59 GMT

ACAF thanks president trump and congressional republicans for including clean aviation fuels in OBBB

WASHINGTON — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) congratulates President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans on the final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act , which includes the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) as part of the legislation's America First energy provisions. This provision has broad support from industry leaders across the farming, energy, transportation and manufacturing sectors, and is a key first step toward unleashing the full potential of a domestic clean aviation fuel economy in the United States.

ACAF Executive Director Jeff Grappone released the following statement:

"Final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act demonstrates the importance of clean aviation fuels to an America First energy policy. We congratulate President Trump and congressional Republicans on final passage of this landmark legislation, and we are grateful for the inclusion of provisions to provide longer-term certainty for the clean fuels market. We look forward to working on future policies to further strengthen the investment outlook for clean aviation fuels. Growing domestic SAF production is expected to drive substantial job creation and economic activity in heartland communities. The entire SAF value chain – including the farming, aviation, manufacturing, oil and gas, and biofuels sectors – will continue to work together to ensure that clean aviation fuels strengthen American energy independence and security."

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels is the first national coalition that brings together leaders across the full value chain to promote the benefits of building a robust U.S. market for clean aviation fuels. ACAF membership is comprised of dynamic industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture sectors, united in their mission to advance the production and adoption of clean aviation fuels. Committed to driving economic growth, reducing emissions, and bolstering national security, ACAF represents a pivotal force in propelling sustainable aviation practices in the U.S. while creating good-paying jobs. For more information about ACAF and to see a list of founding members, please visit www.americansforcleanaviationfuels.com .

ACAF Applauds Senate Inclusion of 45Z in Reconciliation Package

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:05:21 GMT

ACAF Applauds Senate Inclusion of 45Z in Reconciliation Package

WASHINGTON — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Executive Director Jeff Grappone released the following statement regarding the inclusion of the Clean Fuel Production Credit in the Senate’s version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which the Senate approved today:

“The Senate’s inclusion of 45Z as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s America First energy policy provisions reflects the significance of clean aviation fuels to American energy dominance. Building a robust American SAF market will drive jobs and economic growth in heartland communities while strengthening national energy independence.

“A broad range of industries – including aviation, farming, manufacturing, oil and gas, and biofuels – stands ready to build a thriving SAF value chain that demonstrates American leadership in energy innovation. We are grateful to our Senate champions for standing firm in support of growing this nascent market.

“ACAF encourages the House to pass a final version of the legislation that extends the Clean Fuel Production Credit. As we look ahead to the future, restoring the SAF-specific rate in the House-passed version of the bill will spur cross-sector investment to maximize the economic benefits of the American SAF market and advance American energy security.”

The Clean Fuel Production Credit has broad support from the full clean aviation fuel value chain, including energy, transportation, agriculture and manufacturing industry leaders. In June, ACAF called on the Senate to ensure that the reconciliation package included a framework for 45Z that would unlock the full potential of a domestic clean aviation fuels market.

###

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF: Restore SAF-Specific Special Rate to 45Z Tax Credit to Maximize Economic Benefits of Clean Aviation Fuels

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:39:00 GMT

ACAF: Restore SAF-Specific Special Rate to 45Z Tax Credit to Maximize Economic Benefits of Clean Aviation Fuels

WASHINGTON — As Senate Republicans continue consideration of the budget reconciliation bill, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Executive Director Jeff Grappone released the following statement calling for a 45Z framework that drives cross-sector investment to build the American SAF market and advance American energy independence:

“We are grateful for the strong support in both chambers for 45Z, which demonstrates the importance of clean aviation fuels to the president’s energy dominance agenda. Efforts in the House and now Senate Finance Committee to extend the credit to 2031 will help provide market certainty for America’s heartland communities and energy producers while promoting energy security.

“However, delivering the full benefits of clean aviation fuels to the American economy will require restoration of the SAF-specific special rate, as maintained in the House-passed bill, to spur cross-sector investment in this emerging market.

“As the Senate continues work on the reconciliation package, we encourage members to advance a 45Z framework that is technology neutral and reflects the importance of the full value chain – aviation, manufacturers, farmers, oil and gas, and biofuels – to building the American SAF market and enabling energy independence.”

###

Media Contact:

Gabrielle Donofrio

gabrielle@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: IOWA LEGISLATURE BUILDS A PATH TO AMERICAN ENERGY DOMINANCE WITH SAF

Fri, 23 May 2025 15:40:42 GMT

Iowa passes legislation to offer tax credits to producers of sustainable aviation fuels over the next ten years

In Case You Missed It: Lawmakers in Iowa have seized the moment to cement the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and the future of American energy dominance by passing Senate File 657 . The legislation establishes an incentive for SAF production in Iowa for the next ten years, leading the way for the American energy industry domestically and globally.

“Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels applauds Iowa’s lawmakers and leaders who recognize that the future of domestic energy dominance and air travel will require investments from the top down," Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels States Director Nick Boeyink said. “Producers of SAF feedstocks in Iowa will finally have a chance to directly reap the benefits that we have been talking about for years and set the stage for a fully scaled SAF market.”

This expansion of SAF into Iowa state legislation demonstrates the call for the next era of aviation and energy independence in America. A fully scaled SAF market has the potential to create 400k jobs, increase labor incomes by $9.3 billion in America’s heartland communities and secure domestic energy independence.

ACAF is a diverse coalition committed to building a fully scaled SAF market in the U.S. The group’s members represent the full value chain, including: Delta Air Lines, Airbus, Growth Energy, ExxonMobil, POET, Airlines for America, National Business Aviation Association, Corteva, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Missouri Soybeans, Ohio Soybean Council, BP, Rolls-Royce, Natural State Renewables, the American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group, Renew Kansas and the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan.

###

 Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF is a dynamic coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture sectors, united in their mission to advance the production and adoption of clean aviation fuels. Committed to driving economic growth, reducing emissions, and bolstering national security, ACAF represents a pivotal force in propelling sustainable aviation practices in the U.S. while creating good-paying jobs. For more information about ACAF and to see a list of founding members, please visit www.americansforcleanaviationfuels.com

ACAF Encouraged by House Inclusion of Clean Fuel Production Credit in Reconciliation Package, Urges Senate to Maintain the Extension

Thu, 22 May 2025 19:00:13 GMT

ACAF Encouraged by House Inclusion of Clean Fuel Production Credit in Reconciliation Package, Urges Senate to Maintain the Extension

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” including an extension of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, which has broad support across the American agricultural, energy, manufacturing and transportation sectors.

“We are encouraged to see the Clean Fuel Production Credit included in the House reconciliation package. 45Z plays a critical role in driving innovation and investment in the American economy, strengthening our energy independence and supporting farming communities across America’s heartland,” said Samantha Dravis, Executive Director of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels.

“We are grateful to the House members who championed this market certainty for America’s heartland communities and energy producers. We urge the Senate to maintain the extension of the Clean Fuel Production Credit, which will deliver needed clarity to America’s farming communities and advance President Trump’s vision of American energy dominance.”

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF is a dynamic coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturers, energy, and agriculture sectors, united in their mission to advance the production and adoption of clean aviation fuels. Committed to driving economic growth, reducing emissions, and bolstering national security, ACAF represents a pivotal force in propelling sustainable aviation practices in the U.S. while creating good-paying jobs. For more information about ACAF and to see a list of founding members, please visit www.americansforcleanaviationfuels.com

ICYMI: AG GROUPS AND AIRLINES MAKE CASE FOR SAF IN OHIO

Wed, 14 May 2025 17:25:28 GMT

Samantha Dravis, executive director of ACAF, detailed the cross-industry support for transitioning from traditional to sustainable aviation fuels

In Case You Missed It: Earlier this week, Samantha Dravis, Executive Director of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Coalition (ACAF), highlighted the alignment between competing industries, including oil and gas, biofuels and agriculture, to scale the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market at the Ohio Association Annual Conference. Joining Dravis on the panel was ACAF member and Ohio Soybean Association Deputy Executive Director Brandon Kern. Ronnie Powell, Vice President at Everest Fuels and the Chief Operations Officer of Sustainability and Nancy Bsales of 4Air also participated in the Traditional and Sustainable Aviation Fuel panel exploring the transition from traditional to SAF.

“We need a long-term plan that supports the growth of clean aviation fuels across the United States,” Dravis said. “As a coalition, we have brought together stakeholders committed to forging new pathways, as well as, protecting current policies that give farmers an entry point into the market and allow this transition to take place.”

Building a strong SAF market will aid America’s energy independence goals – while giving a much-needed shot in the arm to our farmers and producers. However, the proper regulatory framework and policies are needed to get SAF off the ground, including protecting the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.

ACAF members represent the full value chain, including Delta Air Lines, Airbus, Growth Energy, ExxonMobil, POET, Airlines for America, National Business Aviation Association, Corteva, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Missouri Soybeans, Ohio Soybean Council, BP, Rolls-Royce, Natural State Renewables, the American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group, Renew Kansas and the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan.

###

 Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: AIRLINES FOR AMERICA LEADER CALLS FOR STRONGER SAF POLICY

Thu, 01 May 2025 18:51:46 GMT

CSO at Airlines for America writes for The Washington Times, calls for broader tax credits to support a stronger American SAF market

In Case You Missed It: This week, Kevin Welsh, Vice President of Environmental Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer at Airlines for America (A4A), called for further development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), specifically through protecting and extending the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, in a piece released by The Washington Times . He looks to congressional leaders working through the ongoing reconciliation process to cement the necessary policy to establish a more resilient and scalable American SAF market.

“The three-year duration of the current 45Z credit limits its effectiveness in attracting private sector investment, but with a longer duration and other improvements it could lead to a dramatic increase in U.S. SAF production,” Welsh writes. “Through the reconciliation process, Congress can address this gap and put in place a durable credit that will unlock the potential for SAF grown, produced and consumed in the U.S. benefiting America’s farmers and enabling Americans to fly on aviation fuel produced from America’s Heartland.”

A4A and the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Coalition (ACAF) both recognize the need for SAF as America looks to build its energy leadership and prepare for a future where domestic energy fuels aviation. ACAF advocates for a fully realized CAF market that would have the potential to create hundreds of thousands of jobs and increase revenues across America’s Heartland, while enhancing national security and solidifying American energy independence. To do this, ACAF brings together the entire CAF value chain, from farmers to producers to airlines, to scale the American CAF economy and highlight the benefits of American biofuels.

Aviation fuel made in America, for America

By: Kevin Welsh

The Washington Times

April 28, 2025

With President Donald Trump’s focus on American energy dominance, increasing U.S. energy production and generation is a top priority of the administration that recognizes the importance of lowering energy prices for families and increasing American economic security.

U.S. airlines understand and support President Trump’s focus on American energy dominance. As one of the most significant and volatile operating costs for airlines, jet fuel is a key element in providing safe, reliable and cost-competitive air travel for more than 2.7 million Americans and transporting 61,000 tons of cargo by air every day.

A promising and growing source of U.S. energy is the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is jet fuel derived from renewable sources including waste, oils, fats and agricultural products, among other sources. Already in 2024, reflecting years of government and industry collaboration, over 100 million gallons of SAF were available in the United States, but this amount is still a small fraction [of] the 26-billion-gallon U.S. jet fuel market. As a result, increased SAF production has the potential for significant growth, economic benefits and job creation across the U.S. economy including in the agriculture, energy, transportation and manufacturing sectors.

Achieving significantly increased U.S. SAF production and tapping America’s extensive resources for it, however, will not succeed without effective policies and incentives to catalyze the full potential.

Fortunately, members of Congress in both the House and Senate recognize the potential of SAF and have introduced legislation to support its growth. For example, Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio), recently reintroduced the “Farm to Fly” Act in the House and Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. These bills would help foster the development of SAF within the confines of existing U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, enabling collaboration between America’s farmers, fuel producers and airlines while also supporting the U.S. energy dominance agenda.

In the near-term, we urge Congress to extend and improve the “45Z” Clean Fuel Production Credit. The three-year duration of the current 45Z credit limits its effectiveness in attracting private sector investment, but with a longer duration and other improvements it could lead to a dramatic increase in U.S. SAF production. Through the reconciliation process, Congress can address this gap and put in place a durable credit that will unlock the potential for SAF grown, produced and consumed in the U.S. benefiting America’s farmers and enabling Americans to fly on aviation fuel produced from America’s heartland.

Aside from Capitol Hill, SAF also has historical support from the Department of Defense. The agency maintains that increased and diverse domestic sources of jet fuel are needed for military purposes, resulting in less reliance from foreign suppliers.

As we look to the future, U.S. airlines and the broader U.S. aviation sector will continue to be global leaders in providing safe and reliable air transportation, while also curbing our emissions and environmental impact. We must not cede America’s leadership role on SAF, and we have a great opportunity ahead to leverage America’s energy resources and technical acumen.

We appreciate the administration’s priority on American energy resources and the support and leadership from members of Congress who are championing the opportunity of SAF.

Kevin Welsh is Airlines for America’s vice president of environmental affairs and chief sustainability officer.

 Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Applauds Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for Her Support of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:55:09 GMT

ACAF Applauds gov. sarah huckabee sanders for her support of sustainable aviation fuel

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) applauded Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) for signing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Incentive Act into law. The legislation, championed by ACAF member and Arkansas SAF producer Natural State Renewables , creates an income tax credit for qualified manufacturers of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Qualifying manufacturers will receive a tax credit on their purchases toward SAF production and processing starting on or after January 1, 2025.

“The SAF Incentive Act p ositions Arkansas as a leader in growing this new source of homegrown American energy. We thank Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders for her leadership in helping Arkansas farmers and rural communities reap the economic benefits of building a robust domestic SAF market,” said Natural State Renewables President and CEO Ruben S. Martin III . “Producing more SAF in the United States is part of the broad effort to make America energy independent. Smart policy like the SAF Incentive Act is the first step to seeing this nascent industry take flight.”

“Governor Sanders is helping to make sure that Arkansas farmers benefit from a strong American SAF market,” said Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels States Director Nick Boeyink . “Her leadership will boost domestic energy production, create jobs and new markets for Arkansans, and advance American innovation to meet the aviation industry’s energy needs.”

The advancement of SAF legislation in Arkansas reflects the broader economic benefits that come with fostering a robust domestic SAF market - the potential to create 400k jobs, a labor income increase of $9.3 billion in America’s heartland communities and the promotion of domestic energy independence.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Submits Response to Treasury and IRS Requesting Long-Term Extension of 45Z

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:05:45 GMT

ACAF Submits Response to Treasury and IRS Requesting Long-Term Extension of 45Z

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) submitted a response to the Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service’s request for input on the implementation of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. The comments focus on the role the Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service play in boosting the sustainable aviation fuel market, which will create American jobs, cut costs for airlines and travelers, and advance American energy independence.

ACAF asks the Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service to work to develop stable, long-term policies that support the growth of the alternative aviation fuel industry across the United States, including a 10-year extension of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. Without the credit, the United States risks losing out to foreign competitors and risks losing an economic boon for rural and urban communities alike.

ACAF’s members represent the full clean aviation fuels (CAF) value chain — from agriculture to transportation, manufacturers to energy producers, they are committed to driving the expansion and use of CAFs.

Read ACAF’s full comment letter here .

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

FIFTH-GENERATION FARMER: 45Z EXTENSION “WILL HOLD THE DOORS OPEN” FOR “SIDELINED FEEDSTOCK PRODUCERS”

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:13:18 GMT

In the Kansas City Star, fifth-generation soybean farmer, Garrett Riekhof, emphasizes the pivotal role a flexible 45Z extension holds to American feedstock producers

In Case You Missed It — Garrett Riekhof, a fifth-generation Missouri soybean farmer, recently penned an op-ed for the Kansas City Star where he lays out that flexible and long-term guidance on 45Z is needed for farmers across the United States. Riekhof notes that when implemented correctly, 45Z tax credits can revamp soybean markets and unlock new economic opportunities for our Heartland communities. However, the current guidance for 45Z is too burdensome in its crop requirements, ultimately disincentivizing soybean farmers from participating in building an American sustainable aviation fuel marketplace.

Soybean farmers are “not seeing a significant-enough return on the investment of time, energy, specific regulations needed to quality crops to be used for clean fuels ultimately dissuading their participation and stunting the production of CAFs,” writes Riekhof, “as innovative farming practices have been developed to help the environment, certain techniques were excluded under the last Administration rather than encouraging robust participation in this growing market. Additionally, previous guidance required the bundling of climate-smart practices, creating a barrier to entry so large, our farmers can’t even begin to move forward.”

The Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Coalition (ACAF) brings together the entire CAF value chain, from farmers to producers to airlines, to scale the American CAF economy and highlight the benefits of American biofuels. A fully realized CAF market has the potential to create hundreds of thousands of jobs and increase revenues across America’s Heartland, all while enhancing national security and solidifying American energy independence.

Without support from Washington, Missouri soybean farmers will lose out on new fuels

By: Garrett Riekhof

Kansas City Star

April 3, 2025

Over the last few years, farmers, airlines and energy companies came together in support of domestic clean aviation fuels (CAF) and the immense benefits they bring to our nation’s energy independence, our economic security and the boost to rural communities. Though strides have been made, there is plenty more that can be done to grow this industry – including carefully considering the differences between our American-grown commodities to put the best policies forward. The leadership in Washington, D.C. has changed, and now we implore the new Congress and Administration to continue supporting a robust CAF market – with a focus toward inclusive practices – rather than losing ground. Our farmers have too much to lose without Washington’s support.

The expanding CAF market has left one facet in particular woefully untapped – the soybean farming industry. One of the strongest ways to push the CAF market – and U.S. energy dominance – forward is by extending the clean fuel production credit to include soybean crops. Soybeans are the second biggest crop in the U.S. with 113.27 million metric tons grown in the U.S. between 2023 and 2024. However, due to the qualities inherent in their crop and its limitations, soybean farmers have been put to the wayside compared to counterparts in the industry. The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) has the potential to hold the doors to the market open for soybean farmers and other sidelined CAF feedstock producers.

45Z, which went into effect at the beginning of the year, is poised to expire in 2027 and with it, the promise of a stronger future for producing CAFs. The clean fuel credit incentivizes farmers to produce the crops that can qualify to be used in CAFs and promotes lower carbon intensity outputs for those farmers. This unlocks a greater potential for a strong, domestic low-carbon biofuels market than the scheme farmers had been operating under. To receive the Clean Fuel Production Credit, feedstock farmers must meet the requisite carbon intensity score. Soybean farmers face limitations based on carbon intensity scoring entwined in statutory language. As compared to other producers, soybean farms produce more volume on less space, but due to the makeup of the crop, only 20% of that harvest yields the ingredients for CAFs. In turn, more land is needed to produce the same amount of fuel as other commodities.

The barriers facing soy farmers are further exacerbated as the tax credits that they see are lower per gallon than other crops. The end product is soybean farmers not seeing a significant-enough return on the investment of time, energy, specific regulations needed to quality crops to be used for clean fuels, ultimately dissuading their participation and stunting the production of CAFs. Our farmers are ready to do their part to get this market off the ground, but need the proper regulatory and policy frameworks to do so.

Moreover, as innovative farming practices have been developed to help the environment, certain techniques were excluded under the last Administration rather than encouraging robust participation in this growing market. Additionally, previous guidance required the bundling of climate-smart practices, creating a barrier to entry so large, our farmers can’t even begin to move forward. The Trump administration must take steps to support producers by immediately unbundling these requirements and allow for more flexibility with additional techniques. Without these steps, producers will continue to be discouraged from utilizing sustainable practices, stunting the growth of the market completely.

Soybean producers could be of immeasurable value to the production of CAFs. It’s an area where the largest industrial sectors in America can find alignment, and it’s an industry the incoming leaders in Washington could immediately support to strengthen our economy and energy sectors to the most granular players. But without these changes, our producers will be boxed out by regulatory hurdles that impede their entry. To continue to leave them out of conversations and credits is to lose a strong contributor to the economic boon that the partnership between CAFs and the agriculture industry promises.

Garrett Riekhof is a fifth-generation farmer raising soybeans and corn in Higginsville, Missouri. He is a member of the 501(c)(5) Missouri Soybean Association agricultural organization, a member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

THE CORN MARKETING PROGRAM OF MICHIGAN JOINS AMERICANS FOR CLEAN AVIATION FUELS

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:30:07 GMT

THE CORN MARKETING PROGRAM OF MICHIGAN JOINS AMERICANS FOR CLEAN AVIATION FUELS

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Corn Marketing Program of Michigan ( CMPM ) is joining the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) coalition. CMPM supports research, education and market development for commodities grown and sold in Michigan , including expanding the sustainable aviation fuel market. CMPM joins ACAF to help increase demand for Michigan corn through scaling the domestic SAF market, which is predicted to add 400,000 jobs and increase farm revenue by $427 million.

“The sustainable aviation fuel market has the potential to make an unprecedented impact on U.S. corn demand,” said Scott Piggott , executive director of CMPM . “We are excited for a future where Michigan’s farmers are important partners in supplying corn ethanol to be made into sustainable aviation fuel. CMPM looks forward to working with Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels to ensure that corn farmers’ perspectives are represented as we push to get this important market off the ground.”

“ACAF is pleased to welcome the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan to the coalition. Building demand for commodities grown and sold in the United States, such as corn, will increase production of SAF in the United States, providing an economic boost to our rural communities. CMPM represents a key commodity in the SAF value chain, and their team will provide pertinent input on how to scale SAF while supporting our American farmers,” said Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels States Director Nick Boeyink .

Composed of the largest industrial sectors in America, ACAF works to foster growth for the entire SAF value chain, including farmers, airlines and energy producers. ACAF leads efforts to expand the American SAF market and stimulate the nation’s economy by engaging the whole of the supply chain, creating jobs and making America more energy independent.

CMPM joins the growing roster of ACAF members representing the entire SAF value chain, including: Delta Air Lines, Airbus, Growth Energy, ExxonMobil, POET, Airlines for America, National Business Aviation Association, Corteva, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Missouri Soybeans, Ohio Soybean Council, BP, Rolls-Royce, Natural State Renewables, the American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group and Renew Kansas.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

FORMER SENATE AG CHAIRMAN: “SAF’S SUCCESS DEPENDS ON CROSS-SECTOR COLLABORATION”

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 13:28:53 GMT

former senator pat roberts (R-KS) Highlights Establishing U.S. energy leadership through smart policy and sound regulation in agri-pulse

In Case You Missed It — Former Chairman of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees Pat Roberts (R-KS) authored an op-ed for Agri-Pulse detailing how sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will help fulfill the energy dominance agenda set by President Trump, lift up farmers in the Corn Belt and boost our economy. Roberts, who served in Congress for 40 years, explained commonsense policy and across-industry alignment will be key to getting SAF off the ground.

“As President Trump implements his America First agenda, he is rightfully prioritizing robust energy production as a national priority. Instead of depending on unreliable foreign energy sources,” Roberts writes, “the President is correct that the United States should produce more homegrown energy to meet domestic and global demand. In the President’s quest for national energy dominance, growing domestic production of clean aviation fuels (CAFs) – including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – must be part of the national conversation.”

Roberts serves as a policy advisor to Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels – a national coalition committed to growing the CAF market in alignment with America’s largest industries, including farmers, airlines and energy producers. To reach a fully realized CAF market, the industry needs the support of policies that foster growth for the entire value chain, from farmers and producers to airlines. A fully scaled CAF market would stimulate the nation’s economy by engaging the whole of the supply chain, creating jobs and making America more energy independent. ACAF seeks to do all that using biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen to provide a cleaner alternative to using conventional jet fuel.

SAF’s success depends on cross-sector collaboration

By: Pat Roberts

Agri-Pulse

March 14, 2025

As President Trump implements his America First agenda, he is rightfully prioritizing robust energy production as a national priority. Instead of depending on unreliable foreign energy sources, the President is correct that the United States should produce more homegrown energy to meet domestic and global demand.

In the President’s quest for national energy dominance, growing domestic production of clean aviation fuels (CAFs) – including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – must be part of the national conversation. CAFs have strong support from a broad range of disparate sectors, including farmers, agribusiness, manufacturing, aviation, and oil and gas.

Farmers in Midwestern states – which President Trump won by a wide margin – are particularly bullish about boosting American SAF production. Think of SAF as an airplane’s version of E15 gasoline fuel blend. It’s a renewable alternative to conventional jet fuel that benefits multiple segments of the economy, including farmers, oil and gas producers, and end users.

Growing American SAF production has the potential to strengthen multiple industries. That includes creating a whopping 400,000 American jobs and adding $78 billion to our nation’s economy within the next 10 years.

The Trump Administration is now considering the path forward for the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z). As this process advances, hardworking American farmers support a commonsense regulatory framework that will enable a coalition of industry partners, such as those in the agriculture, energy, transportation and manufacturing sectors, to successfully expand American SAF production.

Once regulatory certainty comes into focus, it will be paramount for industries to work together to scale this promising market. Inevitably, as with any cross-sector endeavor, trade-offs in policy priorities will be needed to jumpstart SAF production. All parties in the value chain must seek common ground and a common purpose to boost domestic SAF production.

My home state of Kansas, an agricultural powerhouse, provides a snapshot of the areas in which individual industries will need to come together to seize the promise of the SAF opportunity. Kansas is already a national aviation leader, supporting thousands of jobs through general aviation and aircraft production. But while the aviation industry has generally preferred the SAF blenders tax credit, finding a way to maximize SAF within the contours of the clean fuel production credit may become necessary.

Simultaneously, oil and gas companies represent another significant segment of Kansas’ economy. These firms have traditionally favored policy allowances for fuel co-processing. Centered in the heartland of America, we are all too familiar with biofuel producers and oil and gas companies’ co-processing tug of war, representing separate sides of a seemingly endless policy debate that must be resolved to secure SAF’s promise.

Ultimately, our economy is strengthened when industries work together. This doesn’t mean every industry is going to win every single policy argument. But it does mean that dialogue and mutual cooperation will be necessary for American SAF production to take flight.

My home state of Kansas is just one of the many agricultural states that will benefit from growing America’s SAF market. Leaders in the SAF value chain must keep sight of the tremendous opportunities for rural job creation and economic activity – as well as national energy security – that building the SAF market represents.

Whether you’re from Kansas, Iowa, Texas or somewhere in between, no single issue is worth derailing an industry that will positively impact heartland communities. From my time representing farmers in Congress, I know good policy and good ideas when I see them. To reap the full benefits of SAF to our economy and to individual industries, sectors will have to work together in a spirit of collaboration – supported by a smart regulatory approach that advances national energy dominance objectives.

Former U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, served as chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Intelligence committees. He serves as a policy advisor to the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels coalition.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

SAF TAKES STAGE IN TEXAS FOR AMERICAN FARM BUREAU CONVENTION

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:41:21 GMT

SAF TAKES STAGE IN TEXAS FOR AMERICAN FARM BUREAU CONVENTION

SAN ANTONIO, T.X. — Representatives from Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) and founding member Delta Air Lines attended the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) 2025 Convention in Texas this month. The convention brought together over 5,000 farmers and ranchers to discuss issues they face in the industry. As the only airline in attendance, members from Delta Air Lines’ government affairs and sustainability teams, including Joanna Chavez, Delta’s SAF program manager, and ACAF’s states team, spoke with attendees during the three-day event to build on the partnerships between the agriculture and aviation industries to scale the domestic clean aviation fuels (CAF) industry.

Also in attendance was House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) and Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), who applauded efforts to grow the sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) market. Working alongside policymakers to institute policy that supports the infrastructure necessary to reinforce the growing SAF market is vital to reaching the heights that a fully scaled SAF market promises.

Partnerships across the value chain, and beyond it, are crucial to the success and growth of CAFs. From farmers to airlines, each link must work in tandem to realize the better economy promised by CAFs and reap their countless benefits, like the predicted creation of 14 million jobs .

ACAF is committed to forging and growing relationships between America’s largest industries, including agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and energy, to reach that fully realized CAF market. To attain this goal, the industry needs the support of policies and regulations that foster growth for the entire system, stimulating the nation’s economy, creating jobs and making America more energy-independent.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: Trump Nominees Offer Assurances to Consider Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:52:11 GMT

ICYMI: TRUMP NOMINEES OFFER ASSURANCES TO CONSIDER SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate held hearings to consider two of President Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees who will impact the future of the clean aviation fuel (CAF) market. The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works conducted a hearing to consider Lee Zeldin for the role of Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Senate Agriculture Committee considered Brooke Rollins nomination for Secretary of Agriculture. Both nominees offered assurances that biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) would be given consideration and focus in the Trump administration.

EPA Administrator Nomination Hearing

Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), chairman of the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus , highlighted the growing efforts of the agriculture and aviation industries in Kansas to build a domestic sustainable aviation fuel market during Zeldin’s hearing. Moran asked Zeldin to consider new technology and supporting regulations, inviting Zeldin to visit his home state to meet Kansans helping build the SAF market.

Zeldin responded positively telling Moran, “I look forward to that conversation as well.”

Secretary of Agriculture Nomination Hearing

Rollins responded to a series of questions about the impact of the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) on rural America from Kansas’s junior Senator Roger Marshall.

Rollins affirmed she will defend rural America and continued, saying, “You and others who hail from these states, where this is a driver for your farmers and your ranchers and your economy, should feel very confident that you have a friend and a defender in this current administration to make sure this continues. 45Z, obviously, my friend Scott Bessent, if confirmed over at Treasury, will be working on that, that’s in his purview. But I will ensure that he has the data and the voices and the opinions around him to make the right decision.”

Moran reminded Rollins that there is an "opportunity for agriculture across the country as we begin to fuel the aviation industry,” before closing by noting that it will require proper guidance on 45Z.

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels supports expanding the use and market for clean aviation fuels through federal policies such as 45Z.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: Delta Air Lines in South Dakota Builds Bridge between Consumer and Producers of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 21:50:01 GMT

ICYMI: Delta Air Lines in South Dakota Builds Bridge between Consumer and Producers of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

SIOUX FALLS, SD — As part of the 39th Annual South Dakota Corn Conference , founding ACAF member Delta Air Lines discussed the important relationship between South Dakota’s corn producers and the future of the domestic clean aviation fuels (CAF) production. Jeff Davidman, Delta’s vice president of state and local government affairs, joined a panel discussion to highlight the growth of American CAF production and the promises it holds for the American economy from the farmers on the ground to the planes in the skies.

In an interview with the Red River Farm Network, Davidman explained the need for the strong relationship between corn producers and airlines.

“Back in 2023, just about 25 million gallons in the U.S. were produced and we need to get to 3 billion gallons by 2030. So, Delta’s working really hard, both as a value chain partner and from a policy standpoint, to try and scale that industry,” Davidman said to Red River Farm Network. “We are a consumer that really is looking to buy this product and we need more of it produced.”

ACAF is committed to growing the CAF market in alignment with America’s largest industries including farmers, airlines and energy producers. To reach a fully realized CAF market, the industry needs the support of policies that foster growth for the entire system from farmers and producers to airlines. A fully scaled CAF market would stimulate the nation’s economy by engaging the whole of the supply chain, creating jobs and making America more energy independent. ACAF seeks to do all that using biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen to provide a cleaner alternative to using conventional jet fuel.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels: Industry Faces Another Unnecessary 45Z Delay

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:07:22 GMT

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels: Industry Faces Another Unnecessary 45Z Delay

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Friday, the U.S. Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced guidance on the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z), issuing a notice of intent to issue regulations and a notice providing an initial emissions rate table, both requiring a 90-day public comment period. Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) — a coalition of America’s largest industries representing the full clean aviation fuels (CAF) value chain, including agriculture, transportation, energy and manufacturers — released the following statement:

“Friday's announcement is another unnecessary delay causing America’s farmers, biofuel producers, oil and gas producers and transportation partners to face needless and prolonged uncertainty. These credits were established to help invest in innovative clean fuels, aiding our rural communities, strengthening our economy and benefiting our environment. Delaying the final implementation further removes any opportunity to achieve our energy and economic goals,” Nick Boeyink, ACAF states director, said.

“We are reviewing the preliminary guidance, and we will work with our members and the incoming Administration to quickly align on rules that will give clarity to American industry partners to scale the clean aviation fuel market, unlock enormous economic benefits, secure our energy independence and support our American farmers.”

ACAF supports expanding the use and market for clean aviation fuels through federal policies such as the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. In December, ACAF submitted a letter to the House Ways and Means Committee asserting that 45Z or a similar credit program should “run through at least 10 years, increase domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, create jobs and help lower carbon emissions by faster implementation of bio-energy production goals.”

The 40B Sustainable Aviation Fuel Tax Credit expired at the end of 2024, with 45Z taking its place until the end of 2027.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

MEMO: STATE OF THE ACAF COALITION - END OF YEAR REFLECTION

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 22:19:16 GMT

MEMO: State of the ACaf Coalition - End of year reflection

To: Interested Parties

From: Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels

Re: State of the ACAF Coalition - End of Year Reflection

Date: December 2024

MEMO: State of the ACAF Coalition - End of Year Reflection

Overview of 2024:

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels launched just over one year ago as the first national coalition to bring together leaders across the complete value chain to highlight the economic benefits of building a robust U.S. market for clean aviation fuels. The coalition has focused on strategically growing support for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) policy incentives by compiling national data and distributing our key messaging to drive grasstops and grassroots support through our strategic 360-degree public affairs campaign. This data has confirmed scaling up a domestic SAF market will increase economic growth in America’s heartland and bolster farm revenues. Nationally, we expect the creation of over 400,000 jobs and nearly $80 billion added to our national GDP by 2035. Across the memo, we will highlight many of our successful initiatives that helped build support for clean aviation fuels nationwide.

Growing Membership:

Since the coalition's announcement, ACAF has welcomed seven new members who have come to the table and are committed to finding a path forward for sustainable aviation fuel. The 15 founding members are dynamic industry leaders from aviation, manufacturing, defense, domestic agriculture and agri-buisness, as well as biofuel producers and traditional oil and gas. We remain committed to being a consensus-driven coalition able to initiate and guide substantive, strategic discussions around policy while balancing each member's individual priorities.

Positioning Proven Thought Leaders:

ACAF members have traveled throughout the country, from New York to Kansas to Texas, to raise awareness of the growing clean aviation fuels industry. Our members have served as keynote speakers, panelists and sponsors of some of the most well-known energy, agriculture and sustainability conferences including Climate Week , CERAWeek , the National Conservative Energy Summit and the Agri-Pulse Ag & Food Policy Summit .

As a coalition, we’ve worked to further support for SAF policy incentives through strategic engagement with agriculture and transportation leaders:

Guest speaker at a Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus briefing
Key industry partner for the launch of the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus
ACAF Comment Submission to USDA
ACAF Comment Submission to the House Ways & Means Committee

Securing Key Media Wins & Reaching Local Audiences

We have built a robust earned media operation working to secure interviews and news stories across the country to help drive our messaging out to target state audiences.

Equally as valuable is the grassroots and grasstops writing campaign we have assembled to push our key messages in newspapers across our target states. Our efforts have complemented our thought leadership positioning and media coverage to help create an outside-in approach to targeting legislators at the federal and state levels.

Wichita Eagle: Sustainable Aviation Fuel Could Help Clear the Air
Des Moines Register: The fate of sustainable aviation fuel is in the hands of Biden regulators
Toledo Blade: Ohio is Poised to Power the Next Generation of Flight
Albany Times Union: A Chance for New York to Decrease Emissions from Air Travel
Agri-Pulse: Collaboration with Farmers is Essential to Building America's Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market
Detroit News: Bill will help drive sustainable aviation
Des Moines Register: Clean aviation fuels check the boxes for agriculture, for America
Aiken Standard: Clean aviation fuels can take flight from South Carolina

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look ahead to our second year, our mission as a coalition will stay the same: to educate voters and policymakers about the many benefits of clean aviation fuels, including:

Promoting American economic growth and job creation,
Harnessing American innovation to reduce emissions, and
Bolstering American national security.

We are pleased to see the re-election of many of the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus and the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus , and we look forward to working with members across both sides of the aisle to advance our priorities next year.

Specifically, our coalition will continue to advocate for:

Extending the existing federal incentives to scale SAF, including a long-term extension and enhancement of the Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit (IRS Section 45Z) to provide long-term investment certainty for clean fuel producers and the full value chain.
Enhancing and strengthening the federal SAF-specific grant programs and other mechanisms that complement existing incentives and derisk investment.
Adopting new state-level SAF incentives and policies that are stackable with and will complement existing federal incentives.
Removing existing regulatory barriers to scaling SAF production and clearing hurdles for new SAF feedstocks.
Incentivizing and giving flexibility for America’s farmers to invest in regionally appropriate climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices that are scientifically proven to reduce lifecycle emissions, as well as other complementary policies to help accelerate US leadership, competition and innovation.

###

ACAF Submits Response to House Ways and Means Committee RFI on Biofuel Tax Policy

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 21:58:34 GMT

ACAF submits response to house ways and means committee rfi on biofuel tax policy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) submitted a comment letter on Friday to the House Ways and Means Committee’s request for additional input on whether biofuel tax provisions included in Public Law 117-169 (concerning §§ 40A, 40B, and 45Z) are designed to maximize domestic energy productivity and contribute to rural economies. The request for input included statements related to the design of the provisions as well as expressions of concern about their design and implementation.

ACAF members, representing the full clean aviation fuels (CAF) value chain—from agriculture, transportation, energy and manufacturers—assert that any 45Z extension should run through at least 10 years, increase domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, create jobs and help lower carbon emissions by faster implementation of bio-energy production goals.

“It is important to observe that the 45Z tax credit is intended, in part, to change the economics of SAF production and use–a critical factor in developing a domestic SAF industry,” ACAF’s comment letter stated. “From the perspective of our consortium, composed of industry members from biofuel production, oil and gas production, agri-business and global aviation, it is crucial that the 45Z tax credit, or similarly situated credit program, be in place beyond 2027 to ensure continued growth and investment in clean aviation fuels. The appropriate length of such a credit program should be at least 10 years to provide long-term certainty and confidence to the market.”

ACAF is committed to driving the expansion and use of CAFs, American-grown feedstocks and harnessed energy. CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle GHG emissions and encompassing the universe of sustainable aviation fuels–biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy resources, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

ACAF’s full comment letter can be found here .

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Continues Growth With New Members American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group and Renew Kansas

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:34:24 GMT

ACAF CONTINUES GROWTH WITH NEW MEMBERS AMERICAN Carbon ALLIANCE, SUMMIT AGRICULTURAL GROUP & RENEW KANSAS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) today announced the addition of the American Carbon Alliance , Summit Agricultural Group and Renew Kansas to the coalition. The three new members joined ACAF to promote the economic benefits of an expanded sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market in the United States. Through the continued investment in American farmers and a commitment to promoting biofuels, the American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group and Renew Kansas will help ensure the continued growth of the domestic SAF market through collaborative partnerships across agriculture, energy, manufacturing and transportation industries.

“The agriculture sector is facing significant challenges, including stagnant corn prices, high input costs, and declining farm incomes—issues that impact not only farmers but also the broader rural economy,” Tom Buis, CEO of the American Carbon Alliance , said. "Expanding higher ethanol blends for consumers and advancing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) represent powerful opportunities for market growth. We are excited to join the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels to advance policies that will strengthen the U.S. market for clean aviation fuels, creating economic benefits that extend well beyond the aviation industry.”

"Joining Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels aligns with our commitment to advancing low-carbon energy solutions," said Bruce Rastetter, founder and executive chairman of Summit Agricultural Group . "As the demand for lower-carbon fuels grows, we have an opportunity to lead in creating pathways that support American agriculture and strengthen our energy independence. I look forward to working with the coalition to drive innovation and expand access to fuel options for the aviation industry."

“We are appreciative of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels’ work advocating on behalf of the countless benefits for sustainable aviation fuels and we are excited to assist in these efforts,” Renew Kansas President and CEO Ron Seeber said. “Our member biofuel producers recognize the importance of market expansion, not only for their respective organizations, but for their farmers and the state of Kansas, and our country as a whole.”

ACAF leads efforts to expand the American SAF market, given its ability to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% or more and decarbonize the aviation sector. The American Carbon Alliance, Summit Agricultural Group and Renew Kansas join the growing roster of ACAF members representing the entire SAF value chain, including: Delta Air Lines, Airbus, Growth Energy, ExxonMobil, POET, Airlines for America, National Business Aviation Association, Corteva, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Missouri Soybeans, Ohio Soybean Council, BP, Rolls Royce and Natural State Renewables.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Natural State Renewables Joins Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 13:06:37 GMT

Natural State Renewables Joins Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Natural State Renewables is joining the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) coalition to champion the benefits of clean aviation fuels. ACAF brings together members across the full sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) value chain to advocate for scaling up a domestic market. Natural State Renewables will aid net-zero emission goals by producing sustainable aviation fuel from renewable feedstocks like surplus forest biomass, while protecting natural resources and promoting responsible forest management.

“ Natural State Renewables believes the future of aviation lies in clean, sustainable fuels. By joining ACAF, we’re proud to contribute our expertise as we prepare to produce SAF from renewable feedstocks like surplus forest biomass, supporting the U.S. in reaching its net-zero goals. Together with ACAF and our strategic partners, we’re committed to scaling domestic SAF production, creating jobs, and advancing a more sustainable future for aviation,” said Ruben S. Martin III, President and founder of Natural State Renewables.

“We are glad to have Natural State Renewables’ voice at the table as we work to build support for clean aviation fuels in the United States,” said Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels States Director Nick Boeyink . “Creating jobs, securing energy independence and allowing our economy to flourish is a win-win for both producers and manufacturers.”

ACAF’s membership includes Delta Air Lines, Airbus, Growth Energy, ExxonMobil, POET, Airlines for America, National Business Aviation Association, Corteva, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Iowa Soybean Association, Missouri Soybeans, Ohio Soybean Council, BP and Rolls Royce.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Member Sees Innovative Farming Practices in Action on Kansas Farm Tour

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:02:50 GMT

ACAF Member Sees Innovative farming practices on Kansas Farm Tour

WICHITA, KS - As a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), Delta Air Lines this week joined the Kansas Farm Bureau for a farm-to-fuel tour – an opportunity to see up close how innovative farming practices on Kansas farms can help expand the domestic production of clean aviation fuels (CAFs), including Sustainable Aviation Fuel or SAF.

The tour connected a range of stakeholders across the SAF value chain, including farmers, experts in the energy and agriculture industries, and Farm Bureau members from various counties. Through visits to soybean crushing facilities and biorefineries, discussions with agronomy experts, and tours of farms engaged in innovative practices like cover cropping and grain sorghum cultivation, the tour yielded valuable insights into how crops are transformed into biofuels.

“It’s invaluable to see firsthand how energy producers and farmers are working hand in hand to advance climate smart agricultural practices. The farmers we talked to are on the leading edge of innovations in farming, making substantial investments to reduce the carbon intensity of their crops,” said Nick Boeyink, ACAF States Director. “Kansas farmers are primed to reap the significant economic benefits of expanding America's SAF market, and this tour will help us make a strong case for a long term policy framework to support this growth.”

Stops at research farms and facilities also highlighted the role of grain quality and biofuel yields in the farm-to-fuel cycle, underscoring the importance of agricultural innovation in fuel production. The tour provided opportunities for the cross-sector collaboration needed to spur American SAF production, including learning about key issues related to grain segregation, carbon intensity scoring, and advancements in sustainable farming.

CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to using conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and encompass the universe of SAF – biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

ACAF Members Celebrate National Clean Energy Week in Washington, D.C.

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 20:42:24 GMT

ACAF Members Celebrate National Clean Energy Week in Washington D.c.

Energy solutions are one of our country’s greatest needs, and National Clean Energy Week is hub for these ideas. To celebrate National Clean Energy Week, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) sponsored the 8th annual National Clean Energy Week conference in Washington,

D.C.

National Clean Energy Week (NCEW) brings together policymakers, industry leaders and energy experts to celebrate the leadership, innovation and impact of the clean energy industry in the United States. By gathering experts from various backgrounds, participants and attendees can collaborate on the most pressing energy challenges, advance low carbon solutions and explore the various energy technologies, including nuclear, hydrogen, biomass and renewable energy solutions.

Sharing in NCEW’s mission, ACAF brings together leaders across the largest industrial sectors in America to advance policies that drive U.S. awareness and investment in clean aviation fuels (CAFs), particularly sustainable aviation fuel. In fact, ACAF is the first coalition to represent the

entire SAF supply chain.

ACAF Applauds Bipartisan Congressional Leadership in Sustainable Aviation Caucuses

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 00:15:29 GMT

ACAF Applauds Bipartisan Congressional Leadership in Sustainable Aviation Caucuses

Washington, D.C. – Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) issued the following statement regarding today’s launch of the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus and, earlier this year, the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus (CSAC) in the U.S. House of Representatives. ACAF is the first national coalition to bring together diverse members across the full SAF value chain—from farmers, fuel producers and manufacturers, to aviation and agribusiness.

“We applaud Senators Moran (R-KS), Duckworth (D-IL), Boozman (R-AR) and Klobuchar (D-MN) and their House counterparts Representatives Davids (D-KS) and Johnson (R-SD) for their bipartisan leadership advancing discussion in Congress to accelerate policy and dialogue around sustainable aviation solutions. The domestic adoption of cost competitive SAF is the most promising, in-production and scalable lever we have today to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions in aviation,” said Nick Boeyink, States Director, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels. “Growing America’s clean aviation fuels market is a tremendous economic opportunity that will drive the creation of hundreds of thousands of American jobs while making our nation more energy secure. We look forward to working with members in both parties to build momentum for policies that will make American aviation more sustainable.”

In July, ACAF presented at a briefing hosted by the CSAC on Capitol Hill. Cherie Wilson, Vice President of Government Affairs – Sustainability at Delta Air Lines, spoke about the need to build strong connections across the value chain to scale domestic SAF production.

ACAF is committed to driving the expansion and use of clean aviation fuels (CAFs) and American-grown feedstocks and harnessed energy. CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to using conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and encompass the universe of sustainable aviation fuels – biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy resources, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

Michigan Corn Growers Vice President: "Producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel Can Empower Rural Communities"

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 20:15:11 GMT

Michigan Corn Growers Vice President: "Producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel Can Empower Rural Communities"

Delmotte highlights benefits of sustainable aviation fuel for rural communities in the Detroit News

In Case You Missed It: Vice President of the Michigan Corn Growers Association John Delmotte published an op-ed in the Detroit News highlighting the economic benefits of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for Michigan farmers and rural communities. Delmotte draws attention to National Clean Energy Week, taking place this week, as an ideal opportunity to promote SAF and its benefits for Michigan's economy. He also lauds Michigan lawmakers' efforts to boost SAF production in the Wolverine State, positioning it as a clean energy leader.

"Corn is an abundant and renewable resource grown right here in Michigan and is one of many materials that can be used to create SAF," Delmotte writes. "Corn farmers have steadily increased their yields by utilizing new and improved technology and management practices and are achieving higher production on the same land with fewer inputs each year, resulting in a low carbon feedstock for SAF. SAF could provide a new avenue for farmers to market their crop and give them the opportunity to capitalize on the booming renewable energy industry."

---

Delmotte: Producing sustainable aviation fuel can empower rural communities

Detroit News , By John Delmotte

September 22, 2024

Imagine a Michigan where the roar of a jet engine isn't just the sound of departure, but the echo of a farmer's hard work, where fields of corn and soybeans don't just feed the nation — they help it take flight. As the skies above Michigan prepare for a cleaner, greener future, it's our state's farmers who stand poised to lead the charge, transforming the heartland into the launchpad for the next generation of sustainable aviation.

National Clean Energy Week, which runs from Sept. 23 to 27, is the perfect time to recognize the pivotal role that sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) can play in both reducing our carbon footprint and revitalizing the state's agricultural economy. SAF is a type of fuel made from renewable resources that can be used in place of traditional jet fuel. It produces fewer carbon emissions during its lifecycle, making it a much more environmentally friendly option for powering an aircraft.

Corn is an abundant and renewable resource grown right here in Michigan and is one of many materials that can be used to create SAF. Corn farmers have steadily increased their yields by utilizing new and improved technology and management practices and are achieving higher production on the same land with fewer inputs each year, resulting in a low carbon feedstock for SAF. SAF could provide a new avenue for farmers to market their crop and give them the opportunity to capitalize on the booming renewable energy industry.

In a state like Michigan, where there are many rural communities, an increased demand for a farmer's crops helps secure a future where farmers, like me, can pass their land down to their children and grandchildren, preserving the legacy of farming. And those benefits lift entire rural communities up — creating new jobs, not just in farming, but in other sectors like construction or manufacturing for the biorefineries needed when converting crops into food and biofuels.

Last November, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed clean energy legislation aimed at making Michigan a leader in the fight against climate change. Now, the Senate Energy and Environment Committee has an opportunity to approve Senate Bill 447, introduced by state Sen. Sam Singh, D-, which supports the adoption of SAF.

Michigan's agricultural industry is responsible for more than $104.7 billion annually of the state's economy and has always been a source of jobs throughout the state. And like most industries, farmers must adapt to the ever-evolving landscape and find new ways to contribute to the state's economy and future.

The production of sustainable aviation fuel can contribute to the agricultural sector by helping farmers create a brand-new stream of revenue and providing economic stability for rural communities.

John Delmotte is vice president of the Michigan Corn Growers Association.

ACAF Members Discuss U.S. SAF Production at North American SAF Conference & Expo

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 20:15:10 GMT

ACAF Members Discuss U.S. SAF Production at North American SAF Conference & Expo

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA— Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) founding members Delta Air Lines , ExxonMobil and Airlines for America (A4A) attended the 2024 North American SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) Conference & Expo to discuss the future of domestic SAF production. Peter Carter, Delta’s Executive Vice President of External Affairs, and Sean Newsum , A4A’s Managing Director of Environmental Affairs, joined a panel on the airline industry meeting the U.S. SAF Grand Challenge. Carolyn Ryeczek , ExxonMobil’s Americas Lower Emissions Fuels and Business Development Manager, spoke to SAF production pathways on the horizon and the oil and gas industry’s progress toward 100% SAF.

Minnesota, where the conference was hosted, has made great strides in SAF policy and production. Since the formation of the Minnesota SAF Hub , a coalition built by the Greater MSP Partnership and backed by companies such as Delta Air Lines and Bank of America, Minnesota has become a leading example of what is possible when SAF advocacy efforts come to fruition. The Minnesota SAF Hub celebrated its first anniversary in late August, marking one year of work to scale the domestic SAF market.

Reflecting on the one-year anniversary of the SAF Hub, Biodiesel Magazine reported Carter saying, “SAF is a proven way to reduce carbon emissions in the near term on our journey to net-zero emissions by 2050. While Delta has committed to purchasing millions of gallons of SAF, there isn’t enough being produced today to fuel the world’s commercial airlines for a single week. That’s why this blending facility is so important – it’s like hanging an ‘Open for Business’ sign to SAF producers to consider doing business in Minnesota, where we see SAF as a great opportunity for all players across the value chain. From financiers and farmers to producers and power generators, our investments are tangible as we draw the blueprint for a model that can be replicated to scale SAF across the country.”

The North American SAF Conference & Expo promotes the development and adoption of practical solutions to produce SAF and decarbonize the aviation sector, bringing together industry experts to share knowledge and help guide business decisions as the SAF industry continues to expand.

ACAF Member Calls for Investment in Domestic SAF Market at Midwest Agri-Pulse Conference

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 21:03:35 GMT

ACAF Member Calls for Investment in Domestic SAF Market at Midwest Agri-Pulse Conference

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) founding member Delta Air Lines participated in Agri-Pulse’s annual Ag Outlook Forum on Monday, September 16, alongside industry experts and key policymakers. Jeff Davidman, Delta’s vice president of state and local government affairs, joined a panel discussion about the promising future of biofuels.

“SAF is the most important lever we have to decarbonize aviation today. Our commitment to promoting and incentivizing investment in a domestic SAF industry is only strengthened through our strategic partnerships with representatives across the full value chain.” Davidman said. “Across the Heartland, successful SAF tax credits are being implemented in states like Minnesota, Nebraska and Illinois–but others must follow suit. We believe SAF will be good for farmers, good for our communities, and good for our environment.”

Donnell Rehagen, CEO of Clean Fuels Alliance America, Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions, and Greg Krissek, CEO Emeritus of the Kansas Corn Grower Association joined Davidman on the panel. Other conference attendees include U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and U.S. Department of Agriculture chief economist Dr. Seth Meyer.

Agri-Pulse’s Ag Outlook Forum is regarded as one of the premier ag events helping identify the challenges and opportunities within the agriculture industry today and features top economic, policy, business and government officials.

As part of a national effort to promote the economic benefits of clean aviation fuels (CAFs), including SAF, ACAF unites industry leaders from across the full SAF value chain – from aviation and energy to manufacturing and agribusiness.

Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels Sponsors 2024 Growth Energy Biofuels Summit

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:06:19 GMT

Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels Sponsors 2024 Growth Energy biofuels Summit

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) represented the coalition at Growth Energy’s 2024 Biofuels Summit PAC dinner. ACAF was a leading sponsor of the summit.

ACAF is the first coalition of the largest industrial sectors in America working to advance policies that drive U.S. investment in clean aviation fuels (CAFs), particularly sustainable aviation fuel.

Growth Energy’s annual Biofuels Summit is a premier advocacy event for the biofuels industry to cultivate and foster strategic relationships with allies and champions on Capitol Hill.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Welcomes Rolls-Royce North America

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:17:55 GMT

acaf welcomes rolls-royce North America

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Americans for Clean Aviation (ACAF) today announced the coalition’s addition of Rolls-Royce North America — a leading manufacturer of aero engines and nuclear energy systems. ACAF is the first coalition of the largest industrial sectors in America working to advance policies that drive U.S. investment in clean aviation fuels, particularly sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Spanning multiple industry sectors, Rolls-Royce’s breadth strengthens ACAF’s effort to build consensus and momentum for policies that expand the use of clean aviation fuels. With this addition, ACAF is expanding its mission to cover both biomass-based and non-biomass-based feedstocks, representing the entirety of the SAF production value chain needed to decarbonize the aviation sector.

"We are thrilled to join leaders across aviation, agriculture and energy to advocate for policies that support access to clean aviation fuels and help secure America’s energy future," said Matthew MacVicar, vice president of government relations, Rolls-Royce.

“The addition of Rolls-Royce to our growing coalition reflects strong support for building a robust SAF market in the United States,” said Nick Boeyink, states director, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels. “Scaling up the U.S. SAF market stands to deliver real economic benefits, including the addition of over 400,000 jobs and adding nearly $80 billion to our national GDP by 2035. Rolls-Royce strengthens our diverse coalition and brings an important voice to the discussion on clean aviation fuels by highlighting the future nuclear energy workforce as a key enabler of power-to-liquids or eSAF.”

After completing compatibility testing of 100% SAF across all Rolls-Royce in-production civil aero engine types in 2023, the company now aims to address the availability of clean energy across the aviation energy value chain—an effort partially underpinned by the company’s development of small modular nuclear reactors.

Carbon-free energy generation, like nuclear power, can provide a stable source of high temperature heat and electricity, facilitating the conversion of clean hydrogen, water and captured CO2 into a clean aviation fuel via a process called power-to-liquids (PtL). The end product, commonly referred to as e-Fuel or e-SAF, is a low to no-carbon drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel. While e-Fuel availability today remains limited to research quantities, expanded PtL production over the next two decades will help backstop the biomass-based SAF supply—bolstering U.S. energy security. Notably, in order for aviation to decarbonize, both biomass-based and non-biomass-based forms of SAF must successfully scale to meet growing demand.

ACAF brings together members from across the full SAF value chain from farmers to fuel producers. Today, SAF is an environmentally sound alternative to conventional jet fuel and can help decarbonize the aviation industry by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 80% or more.

###

About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc

Rolls-Royce develops and delivers complex power and propulsion solutions for safety-critical applications in the air, at sea and on land. Our products and service packages enable our customers to connect people, societies, cultures and economies together; they meet the growing need for power generation across multiple industries; and enable governments to equip their armed forces with the power to protect.
Rolls-Royce has a presence in 48 countries and customers in more than 150, comprising over 250 commercial large aero engine customers, 160 armed forces and navies and approximately 40,000 active Power Systems customers. We are committed to becoming a net zero company by 2050 and we support our customers to do the same.
Annual underlying revenue was $20.79bn in 2023, underlying operating profit was $2.16bn and free cash flow $1.75bn.
Rolls-Royce Holdings plc is publicly traded company (LSE: RR., ADR: RYCEY, LEI: 213800EC7997ZBLZJH69)
www.rolls-royce.com

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

What They Are Saying: ACAF Members Discuss Meeting Airline SAF Demand at the National Conservative Energy Summit

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 20:29:34 GMT

What they are saying: acaf member discuss meeting airline saf demand at the national conservative energy summit

HOUSTON, TEXAS - The Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) coalition hosted a fireside chat at the National Conservative Energy Summit (NCES) in Houston, Texas. Neil Hansen , Senior Vice President of Global Energy Products at ExxonMobil, and Emily Skor , CEO of Growth Energy, discussed the collaboration needed between oil, gas and biofuels to meet SAF goals set by the U.S. airline industry. The discussion was moderated by Samantha Dravis , ACAF Board Chair and Principal & Chief Operating Officer at AxAdvocacy.

NCES brought together conservative clean energy advocates, policy experts, state and federal leaders and technical specialists with a shared focus on developing a clean energy future rooted in conservative principles. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a key component of this strategy, recognized as the most promising, in-production and scalable lever to accelerate progress toward a net zero future in the aviation industry.

ACAF, a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturing, energy and agricultural sectors, participated in the summit alongside two founding members.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING

Emily Skor, CEO, Growth Energy (ACAF Founding Member): “From the biofuel perspective, we're incredibly excited about this market opportunity. If you're looking at a hard to abate sector like aviation, you really need all the tools in the toolbox. Ethanol is going to help provide the volume needed to be able to achieve the goals that the airlines have set out.”

Neil Hansen, SVP of Global Energy Products, ExxonMobil (ACAF Founding Member): “I think what's powerful is the fact that across these industries, we have very natural partnerships. We're getting an alignment on the structure of a policy that's needed. We need strong partners and advocates on both sides of the aisle to recognize that if we're going to be competitive in the United States, we need to establish that policy framework. I think it begins with us articulating what we need, and it's very powerful we can do that across many segments of our businesses here in the United States.”

ON REGULATORY AND POLICY CHANGES NEEDED:

Emily Skor, CEO, Growth Energy (ACAF Founding Member): “The truth is, right now, there are a lot of people sitting on the sidelines in my industry. We are ready to go. We want to put steel in the ground. We want to create clean energy jobs. Farmers want to be doing more in terms of some sustainable farming practices. But until we get guidance from Washington that says, ‘yes, if you do this, it will equate to the following,’ a lot of the conversation will be less with the industry. It’s more educating Washington.”

Neil Hansen, SVP of Global Energy Products, ExxonMobil (ACAF Founding Member): “Reducing emissions from the transportation sector is going to require a lot of different solutions, market-based approaches and collaboration. That's collaboration across oil and gas producers, feedstock producers, policymakers and customers. Part of the reason is that whether you produce sustainable aviation fuel from vegetables oils or waste oils or ethanol, it is a more expensive feed. You need policy in place to support or send a market signal.”

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Iowa Soybeans Push Policy Framework to Support Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Iowa State Fair

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:49:30 GMT

Iowa soybeans push policy framework to support sustainable aviation fuel at iowa state fair

DES MOINES, IOWA - Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) founding member the Iowa Soybean Association attended the Iowa State Fair to advocate for building a strong policy framework to support the future of clean aviation fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Iowa Soybean representatives met with U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Ron Estes (KS-04) and Jason Smith (MO-08), who is the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.

The Iowa State Fair is the largest event in Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country.

As part of a national effort to promote the economic benefits of SAF and all clean aviation fuels, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturing, energy and agricultural sectors attended alongside its founding members Corteva Agriscience and the Iowa Soybean Association.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Nebraska Readies to Cash In on SAF

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:27:03 GMT

Nebraska readies to cash in on SAF

Kearney, Nebraska – Today, Delta Air Lines’ Director of State and Local Government Affairs Sarah Gonzales delivered remarks at the annual Ag & Economic Development Summit hosted by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen (R). Gonzales participated in a panel entitled “The Nebraska Bioeconomy: Feeding the world, fueling the future, saving the planet.”

Like many Midwestern states, Nebraska is a gold-mine of jobs and opportunity when it comes to producing and scaling a market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “We applaud Governor Pillen and all the biofuel champions in Nebraska for recognizing and passing legislation that will incentivize and speed the production of Nebraska’s SAF market,” said Gonzales.

The U.S. aviation industry has taken a leadership role in the development and deployment of SAF, alongside many other critical industries and sectors whose future depends on a robust U.S. SAF market. Delta is a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), a diverse coalition made up of leading industry players from across the full SAF value chain.

“Farmers in Nebraska and across the country hold the keys to unlocking the most important lever to decarbonize aviation through SAF,” said Gonzales. “Even more reason to spotlight the critical nature of strategic incentives to support farmers and the burgeoning SAF industry in states across the heartland, which serves to drive economic growth and national security.”

Nebraska’s newly passed SAF tax credit (LB937) will provide a $0.75 per gallon tax credit for the production of aviation fuel that reduces lifecycle emissions by at least 50 percent, which may be calculated based on the most recent version of the Argonne National Laboratory’s GREET model.

During Governor Pillen’s State of the State address in February , he noted his strong support for developing a state-wide bioeconomy, including SAF.

The focus of the Governor’s summit was the emerging bioeconomy in Nebraska, which included building robust supply chains to support sustainable agriculture.

Gonzales participated in the panel conversation alongside:

Gavin Gretter, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Love’s Travel Stops,
Michael Darcy, CEO of DG Fuels,
John Hannon, Chief Operating Officer of Vertimass,
Reid Wagner, Executive Director of the Nebraska Ethanol Board, and
Valerie Reed, Director for the Bioenergy Technologies Office under the U.S. Department of Energy.

DGFuels is a Delta off-take partner , which works to help expand the availability of SAF.

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: President of Prominent Kansas Agricultural Group Applauds Former Senator’s Call for SAF Policy

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:45:01 GMT

ICYMI: President of Prominent Kansas Agricultural Group Applauds Former Senator’s Call for SAF Policy

Roger Bostwick praises former Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) for highlighting economic benefits of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in the Wichita Eagle

In Case You Missed It: President of the Kansas State Grange Roger Bostwick wrote a letter to the editor applauding former Senator and senior Americans for Aviation Fuels (ACAF) advisor Pat Roberts’ (R-KS) comments in his recent op-ed for the Wichita Eagle. Bostwick echoed Roberts’ view that sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) present vast economic opportunities for America. He called for stronger policies to boost SAF production, agreeing with Roberts that SAF is a “game changer” that will support farmers and drive jobs with the right long-term policy framework in place.

“Roberts touches on the inclusion of SAF tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act as a catalyst for initial investment but caveats that these tax credits are short-term. This underscores an important reminder as policymakers consider the way forward: to reach our climate goals, they must prioritize a long-term SAF policy framework,” Bostwick writes. “It is critical that federal and state lawmakers do not ignore this opportunity to expand access to clean fuels, which will subsequently support American farmers and create jobs.”

ROBERTS IS RIGHT

By Roger Bostwick

July 30, 2024

Wichita Eagle

Former Kansas Sen. Pat Roberts’ recent opinion piece ( Sustainable Aviation Fuel could help clear the air, former Kansas senator says , July 15) rightfully describes sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a “game changer” and calls upon federal and state lawmakers to take action in expanding access.

SAF is one of the most effective climate solutions on the table today, and policymakers on both sides of the aisle recognize its promise.

It will play a critical role in achieving aviation’s bold commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Accordingly, the aviation sector is accelerating investments in SAF engineering, manufacturing, and airport infrastructure.

As a former United States senator and representative for the Sunflower State, Roberts understands the role lawmakers can play in supporting aviation’s path to net zero and scaling up production of the SAF market.

Roberts touches on the inclusion of SAF tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act as a catalyst for initial investment but caveats that these tax credits are short-term.

This underscores an important reminder as policymakers consider the way forward: to reach our climate goals, they must prioritize a long-term SAF policy framework.

State-specific policies are being implemented across the country — from California to Nebraska to Illinois — incentivizing the agriculture and aviation industries to invest in this growing market.

But we can’t stop there.

It is critical that federal and state lawmakers do not ignore this opportunity to expand access to clean fuels, which will subsequently support American farmers and create jobs.

Roger Bostwick is the president of the Kansas State Grange, which is the oldest agricultural advocacy organization in the state.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Submits Comments to USDA Urging Transparency and Flexibility in Approach to Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 20:18:08 GMT

ACAF Submits Comments to USDA Urging Transparency and Flexibility in Approach to Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices

Washington, D.C. – Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) submitted a comment letter to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) request for information highlighting the aviation sector’s shared goals of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. ACAF members, who represent the full clean aviation fuels (CAF) value chain—from farmers, fuel producers and manufacturers, to aviation and agribusiness—urged the agency to focus on three key considerations:

Enabling a broad array of feedstocks and climate-smart practices;
Incorporating transparent and science-based assumptions and practices; and
Supporting credibility without overburdening and stifling producers while fostering innovation through flexibility.

“American farmers and feedstock producers, supported by sound science and industry leading practices, stand by to contribute to the daunting task of supporting industry growth that achieves 3 billion gallons of SAF production by 2030 and meets 100% of aviation fuel demand by 2050,” ACAF’s comment stated.

The Office of Energy and Environmental Policy within the USDA released a request for public input in June on the reporting and verification of climate-smart agriculture practices' impact on reducing GHG emissions, specifically regarding domestic crops used in biofuel production.

In the comment, ACAF thanked Director Hohenstein for the opportunity to provide input on the shared goal of reducing GHG emissions and applauded the USDA for working with agency and industry partners to determine the path forward.

ACAF is committed to driving the expansion and use of CAFs and American-grown feedstocks and harnessed energy. CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to using conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle GHG emissions and encompass the universe of sustainable aviation fuels – biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy resources, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

ACAF’s full comment letter can be found here .

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: Seventh Generation Iowa Farmer: “Collaboration with Farmers is Essential to Building America’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market”

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 14:05:50 GMT

ICYMI: Seventh Generation iowa farmer; "collaboration with farmers is essential to building america's sustainable aviation fuel market"

In Case You Missed It: Mitchell Hora , seventh-generation Iowa farmer and founder of Continuum Ag , authored an op-ed for Agri-Pulse emphasizing the urgent need for collaboration between farmers and policymakers to effectively scale up domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. Hora argues that SAF presents an immense opportunity for American farmers, but successful implementation on the ground requires clear policies and resources from lawmakers.

“By working together, and hearing the voices of American farmers, the administration can put a framework in place that incentivizes American farmers to advance domestic SAF production – delivering environmental benefits while building a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous future for rural communities across the country,” Hora writes.

Collaboration with farmers is essential to building America’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel market

By: Mitchell Hora

Agri-Pulse

July 17, 2024

American farmers are ready to make the United States the world’s leading producer of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which currently represents the most promising pathway to achieving net zero carbon emissions in aviation. We just need decision makers in Washington to put smart policies in place that justify the significant investments in climate-smart agriculture practices that are needed for SAF to truly take flight.

To help achieve its bold goal of increasing domestic SAF production to 35 billion gallons annually by 2050, the administration is trying to incentivize farmers to play their part and recently released the long-awaited, revised GREET model guidance. The administration’s effort took only a half step forward in advancing sustainable agriculture practices.

In order to qualify for the 40B SAF tax credit, corn farmers must check all three boxes of participation in the following farming practices: cover cropping, no-till farming and the use of enhanced efficiency fertilizer. In comparison, soybean farmers are required to utilize both cover crop and no-till practices, but no fertilizer requirements are included. This “check-the-box” style of regulation creates uncertainty and lack of malleability, which means very few farmers will realistically qualify under the updated guidance.

Leaving eager American farmers scratching their heads doesn’t just make it harder to achieve the administration’s SAF goals. It also makes it harder to grow a thriving American bioeconomy that promotes sustainable development across the agricultural value chain while simultaneously revitalizing rural communities.

Expanding SAF production in the U.S. represents an enormous economic opportunity for rural America. The demand for feedstocks used in SAF – corn, soybeans and other oilseeds – can stabilize the U.S. agricultural market and provide a reliable income stream for family farmers. Establishing and expanding biofuel refineries and production facilities in rural areas can stimulate job growth and provide opportunities for skilled workers, engineers, and technicians. Studies suggest building America’s SAF market could lead to nearly 400,000 jobs at its peak, with 225,000 jobs in the Heartland alone.

Make no mistake, the global race to dominate the SAF market is on. While the U.S. specializes in raising the exact feedstocks used in SAF production, international competitors such as Brazil are primed to take the lead in this space. We can’t afford to let America fall behind.

If our nation is to realize the true long-term economic and environmental benefits of domestic SAF production, we need the right regulatory framework. Farmers proactively invest in sustainable farming practices and want to make the industry more climate-friendly, mindful that our livelihoods depend on the health of our land and air. But under the guidance released by the Biden administration, farmers will not be able to become a significant part of the SAF future. Furthermore, the current IRS guidance only allocates a 10 CI point reduction to Climate Smart farmers. In reality, the Argonne GREET model proves that utilizing good soil health practices can result in a substantially greater CI reduction coming off the farm.

Collaboration is essential to drive innovation and scale up domestic SAF production. I urge the Biden administration to accept the Argonne GREET Model as the Gold Standard that it is. The GREET model feedstock calculator accurately, yet conservatively, highlights the CI reduction benefits occurring on the farm. I further encourage this administration to work directly with farmers in each region to identify nuanced impacts of climate-smart practices and help us most accurately tell the promising story of American agriculture. By working together, and hearing the voices of American farmers, the administration can put a framework in place that incentivizes American farmers to advance domestic SAF production – delivering environmental benefits while building a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous future for rural communities across the country.

A seventh-generation farmer from Washington, Iowa, Mitchell Hora is the Founder and CEO of Continuum Ag. He is affiliated with Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, a diverse coalition of the largest industrial sectors in America devoted to promoting the economic benefits of building a robust domestic market for clean aviation fuels.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ICYMI: Former Chairman of Senate and House Ag Committees: “Sustainable Aviation Fuel Could Help Clear the Air”

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 16:31:00 GMT

ICYMI: Former Chairman of Senate and House Ag Committees: “Sustainable Aviation Fuel Could Help Clear the Air”

Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) highlights economics benefits of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Wichita Eagle and Kansas City Star

In Case You Missed It: Former Chairman of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees Pat Roberts (R-KS) authored an op-ed for the Wichita Eagle and Kansas City Star calling attention to the benefits of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for the American economy and our farmers, including those in his home state of Kansas. The former Senator – a senior Republican who served in Congress for 40 years – calls on lawmakers to prioritize a robust and enduring policy framework to scale up this promising clean fuel solution and put aviation on a path toward a more energy secure future.

“It’s no surprise that some of the largest industrial sectors in America have put their full weight behind scaling the SAF market,” Roberts writes. “Besides the environmental impact, scaling SAF would be a windfall for the American economy. Recent data shows it has the potential to attract over $1.5 trillion in private investment, create or support over 400,000 jobs and generate $78 billion in new economic activity.”

Roberts serves as a policy advisor to Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels - a national coalition that brings together leaders from the aviation, energy, and agricultural sectors to expand America’s clean aviation fuels market, including SAF.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel could help clear the air, former Kansas senator says | Opinion

By Former Sen. Pat Roberts (R-KS)

Wichita Eagle and Kansas City Star

July 15, 2024

In the quest to reduce carbon emissions in our economy, few challenges loom larger than the aviation industry.

Air travel accounts for a significant and growing share of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it remains one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonize.

Unlike ground transportation alternatives, inventing a battery that would power a commercial plane across the country, let alone an ocean, is not in the foreseeable future.

Enter Sustainable Aviation Fuel, commonly called by the abbreviation SAF.

SAF is a biofuel or synthetic fuel that can be used as a drop-in replacement for traditional jet fuel, significantly reducing lifecycle carbon emissions without requiring changes to existing aircraft or infrastructure.

Carbon capture technology can also significantly aid in reducing the emissions from fuel production, as the technology harnesses CO2 emissions during the fuel’s creation.

SAF is a game changer and is the only scalable solution available today that can yield immediate results and drastically cut airline greenhouse gas emissions while promoting America’s energy independence and security.

It’s no surprise that some of the largest industrial sectors in America have put their full weight behind scaling the SAF market.

Airlines have committed to buying billions of gallons of SAF when it becomes available, and coalitions like Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, which includes farmers, fuel producers and the aviation and agribusiness sectors, have banded together to educate the public and advocate for policies that will drive investment in the SAF market.

Besides the environmental impact, scaling SAF would be a windfall for the American economy.

Recent data shows it has the potential to attract over $1.5 trillion in private investment, create or support over 400,000 jobs and generate $78 billion in new economic activity.

But the path to scaling up SAF production and adoption is not a simple one.

TAX CREDITS NEEDED

Unfortunately, SAF represents less than one percent of the current market and costs two to four times more than traditional jet fuel.

To tackle this challenge, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act included two tax credits for SAF production — the 40B and 45Z credits— which have spurred excitement and initial investment in the industry.

These credits are critical to catalyzing investment in domestic SAF production, delivering substantial domestic economic benefits.

However, the 40B Blenders Tax Credit is set to expire after just two years and transitions into a new three-year 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, creating uncertainty about the long-term economics of SAF production.

The credit is set to expire just around the time producers would be looking to bring new facilities online. Industry and value chain players generally need 10 years or more to appropriately plan and make strategic investment decisions.

To truly unlock the potential of SAF, lawmakers must prioritize a robust and enduring policy framework.

The Biden administration must also provide greater regulatory clarity and flexibility around the implementation of climate-smart agriculture practices, which adapt current farming practices to account for changes in the local climate, and incorporate processes such as cover cropping, nutrient management and conservation tillage.

The recent release of the administration’s Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies — GREET— model guidance is an important step in the right direction, but American farmers are looking for a level of certainty that can only come from providing further clarity around the use of these climate-smart ag practices.

They need a framework that allows them to adopt regionally appropriate practices that have been rigorously validated as effective in reducing emissions. By crafting smart, science-based solutions, policymakers can incentivize the substantial investments needed to scale up these important farming techniques.

Another key challenge is the complex web of regulations governing biofuel production and use.

Many promising SAF feedstocks grown by today’s farmers, such as ethanol derived from cornstarch, are not currently approved as “advanced biofuels” under EPA regulations.

This limits their eligibility for key incentives. Streamlining the pathway approvals process for new SAF feedstocks represents low-hanging fruit and should be a top priority.

The 45Z credit offers a promising model on the legislative front, but must be extended well beyond its current 2027 expiration date.

Support beyond tax credits is needed as well — targeted federal grant programs and loan guarantees can also play a vital role in scaling up the SAF industry.

A Federal Aviation Administration FAST program, Fueling Aviation’s Sustainable Transition, includes support for SAF and is a good start. But it should be expanded and strengthened over the coming years to help reduce the risk of investment in this burgeoning market.

STATE HAS ROLE TO PLAY

State-level policies have an important role to play, too.

Several states, including Nebraska, Minnesota, Washington, and Illinois, have already passed their own SAF incentives.

These state-specific policies can complement federal measures, making SAF production even more economically viable and encouraging production beyond California.

In the coming years, expect to see a push for similar incentives in other key biofuel producing states across the corn belt.

By enacting smart, forward-looking policies today, we can help to scale up this promising clean fuel solution and put aviation on a path toward a more energy secure future.

The journey ahead may be long and turbulent, but the destination — a thriving, low-carbon aviation industry that supports American farmers and creates good jobs — is well worth the effort.

It’s time for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders across the value chain to come together and make the promise of SAF a reality.

Former U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, served as chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Intelligence committees. He serves as a policy advisor to the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels coalition.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Founding Member At International Fuel Ethanol Workshop: “We Support Job Security for American Workers and Energy Security for American Consumers”

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 13:52:25 GMT

ACAF founding member at international fuel ethanol workshop: "We Support Our Job Security for American Workers and energy american consumers"

Minneapolis, MN – Chris Bliley, Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Growth Energy , an Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) founding member, recently delivered keynote remarks at the 40th annual International Fuel Ethanol Workshop . Bliley highlighted the biofuels industry’s pivotal role in growing the broader American economy and how sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will be the key to unlocking this growth. ACAF is the first national coalition to bring together diverse members across the full SAF value chain—from farmers, fuel producers and manufacturers, to aviation and agribusiness.

Highlighting the economic impact of SAF on the biofuels industry and the American economy overall, Bliley said: “In the longer-term, our embrace of innovation and the broader bioeconomy can help us find new homes for bioethanol, in places like Sustainable Aviation Fuel. We’re at the beginning of a long-term process when it comes to decarbonizing aviation. But here’s something worth noting: SAF could be a $105-billion market. That would double the size of our entire industry’s contribution to U.S. GDP.”

Bliley also emphasized the bipartisan appeal of growing the U.S. SAF market. “Our industry’s greatest strength is our bipartisan appeal,” Bliley said. “We’re American-made and low-carbon. We support job security for American workers and energy security for American consumers.”

SAF is an environmentally sound alternative to conventional jet fuel, and can help decarbonize the aviation industry by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, all while benefiting the American economy, farmers and growers, the environment and national security.

The International Fuel Ethanol Workshop is the world’s largest ethanol event, bringing together key industry leaders and government stakeholders to discuss the future of the biofuels industry. For Bliley’s full remarks, read here .

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF: Administration’s GREET Model Guidance Takes Step Toward Building America’s SAF Market, More Work Remains to Help American Farmers Unlock Economic Benefits of SAF

Thu, 02 May 2024 19:59:08 GMT

ACAF: administration's greet model guidance takes step toward building America's SAF Market, more work remains to help american farmers unlock economic benefits of SAF

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) issued the below statement today in response to the release of the Biden administration’s long-awaited GREET model guidance. ACAF is the first national coalition to bring together diverse members across the full SAF value chain—from farmers, fuel producers and manufacturers, to aviation and agribusiness.

Nick Boeyink, ACAF States Director, said:

“The administration’s GREET model guidance takes a step forward on the path to building a successful domestic SAF industry and achieving the President’s goal of a net-zero aviation sector by 2050. SAF represents an enormous economic opportunity for America’s heartland communities, with the potential to attract over $1.5 trillion in private investment, create or support over 400,000 jobs at its peak, and generate $78 billion in new economic gains.

“By recognizing the proven role of sustainable farming practices in reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture, the administration’s guidance cracks open the door for American farmers to reap the enormous economic benefits of SAF. While we are encouraged by this initial signal from the administration, there remains a need for greater regulatory clarity and flexibility that incentivizes American farmers to make the substantial investments needed to implement climate smart agriculture (CSA) practices. Going forward, the administration must continue to craft a regulatory framework that provides the ability for American farmers to implement more CSA practices that are regionally appropriate, which extensive study has shown to be fully verifiable, quantifiable and transparent.

“We will continue to work across industries and around the country to make the case for a smart regulatory framework that unlocks SAF’s economic benefits for farmers, fuel producers, manufacturers, aviation and agribusiness.”

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

PRESS RELEASE: ACAF Members Build Momentum in National Effort to Scale Clean Aviation Fuels

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:57:47 GMT

Americans for clean aviation Fuels is the first national coalition focused on promoting the benefits of building a robust U.S. market for All Clean Aviation Fuels Including SAF

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, April 29, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Nearly six months after launching , Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), members are building momentum in their national effort to scale the U.S. market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). ACAF is the first national coalition to bring together diverse members across the full SAF value chain—from farmers, fuel producers and manufacturers, to aviation and agribusiness. ACAF has been crisscrossing the country to educate and encourage pro-growth energy policies to build a U.S. market for SAF and all clean aviation fuels, and provide alternatives to the over 12 billion gallons of traditional jet fuel used in the U.S. every year. Economic models show that as U.S. SAF production scales up, this new American industry has the potential to attract over $1.5 trillion in private investment, create or support over 400,000 jobs at its peak, and generate $78 billion in new economic gains. States with available biomass and ability to produce SAF will experience the largest job and economic benefits, with the Midwest and America’s heartland communities leading the way.

The aviation industry is gearing up for the SAF transition and airlines globally have committed to purchasing billions of gallons of SAF over the next few decades. But right now, there isn’t enough SAF in the world to fuel the global aviation industry for a single day.

“We are excited to continue this important work,” said Nick Boeyink, ACAF’s Iowa-based States Director. “We can continue buying billions of barrels of imported petroleum jet fuel, or we can take flight with the SAF movement and reinvigorate rural America. Building a robust U.S. SAF market just makes sense—for jobs, the economy and American energy security.”

ACAF AMPLIFIES VOICES NATIONWIDE IN SUPPORT OF EXPANDING AMERICA’S CAFs MARKET

Des Moines Register : The fate of sustain able aviation fuel is in the hands of Biden regulators

By Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy

President Joe Biden predicted last summer that in the next 20 years, U.S. farmers will provide the feedstock for 95% of all sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF — a vision that lines up with his administration’s Grand Challenge to increase American SAF production to 35 billion gallons annually by 2050. Given the inherent challenges of reducing carbon emissions in air travel, the president’s goal is significant. That’s because SAF, a homegrown fuel source from America’s heartland, represents the most promising, in-production and scalable lever to help airlines achieve a net zero future. However, the reality is that today, there’s not enough SAF produced annually to fuel global commercial aviation for even one week.

Toledo Blade : Ohio is Poised to Power the Next Generation of Flight

By Rusty Goebel, President of the Ohio Soybean Association

Over a century ago, Ohio secured its place in history as a launchpad for American aviation innovation. It stood again on the forefront of the transportation transformation as the state became a leading producer of corn ethanol. Today, we once again have an enormous opportunity to lead the nation with game-changing innovation in the development and scale of clean aviation fuel, specifically bio-based sustainable aviation fuel or SAF. Powering flights with homegrown SAF will not only create good paying jobs for Ohioans, but it will create a ripple effect across our entire state’s economy.

Albany Times Union : A Chan ce for New York to Decrease Emissions from Air Travel

By Amelia DeLuca, CSO of Delta Air Lines

New York has long been a leader in combating climate change. But reaching New York’s ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is going to take governments and industries working together to cross the finish line – and the transportation industry must be part of the conversation. Right now, transportation accounts for approximately a third of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., the largest share of any sector. The global aviation sector alone is responsible for 1 billion tons of emissions, 3% of the world’s total. At the root of the problem is airlines’ dependence on petroleum-based fuel options. Currently, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is the most promising lever to accelerate the airline industry on a path to net zero by 2050.

Aiken Standard : Clea n aviation fuels can take flight from South Carolina

Also seen on: FITSNews

By J.D. Chaplin, row crop farmer from Hartsville and chairman of the Darlington County Republican Party

Agriculture and aviation are key drivers of South Carolina’s economy. With the right strategy, South Carolina’s agriculture sector can power American aviation, too. As governments and businesses work together to reduce carbon emissions from airplanes, a consensus is forming around the most effective lever: clean aviation fuels, such as biomass-based sustainable aviation fuel. With the right policies in place, South Carolina has an opportunity to lead in building a strong American SAF market, spurring jobs and economic growth across the Palmetto State.

Des Moines Register : Clean av iation fuels check the boxes for agriculture, for America

By Kirk Leeds, CEO of the Iowa Soybean Association

With the drums of war beating again in the Middle East, America faces a pressing need to secure stable, affordable fuel supplies that do not make us dependent on dictators and volatile foreign crude oil. Yet ample opportunities remain untapped in our own heartland. Advanced biofuels offer a path to build robust clean energy industries that strengthen our farmers, create jobs, and safeguard our energy security.

Detroit News : Bill will help drive sustainable aviation

By Amelia DeLuca, CSO of Delta Air Lines

When Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed historic clean energy legislation last November, it immediately positioned Michigan as a national leader in the fight against climate change. In fact, the global community took notice when the state set a goal to produce 100% of its energy from clean sources by 2040. As leaders in the aviation industry, Delta Air Lines hopes Michigan will continue its efforts to help protect our planet by passing legislation to help decarbonize the aviation industry, a hard-to-abate sector.

ACAF MEMBERS PRESS FOR CAFs IN KEY STATES ACROSS AMERICA

Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit (Iowa) – Appearing alongside presidential candidates, founding members of ACAF – Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor and Delta Air Lines Vice President of State and Local Government Affairs Jeff Davidman – highlighted the promising future of CAFs, SAF, at the annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit in January.

Agri-Pulse Ag & Food Policy Summit (Wa shington, D.C.) – Founding members of ACAF — Delta Air Lines Chief Sustainability Officer Amelia DeLuca and Airlines for America Vice President for Environmental Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer Kevin Welsh — discussed the economic benefits of SAF for American farmers during the keynote discussion at Agri-Pulse’s annual Ag & Food Policy Summit held in Washington, D.C. This national conference brought together agriculture and energy industry leaders, policy experts and elected officials to focus on key topics such as biomanufacturing, climate-smart agriculture practices and sustainable aviation – including the future of SAF.

CERAWeek (T exas) — Founding members of ACAF — Exxon Mobil Corporation Chairman and CEO Darren Woods, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor and Delta Air Lines Managing Director for State and Local Government Affairs Patricia Ornst — attended the 2024 CERAWeek in Houston, Texas, in March. CERAWeek is a premier industry conference for leaders in the energy and environment space, and it is highly attended by the most well-known industry experts, Administration officials and Fortune 500 C-Suite executives.

Exxon’s Darren Woods participated in the Leadership Dialogue series
Growth Energy’s Emily Skor participated in a panel discussion on “Business Models to Scale Biofuels Supply”
Delta’s Patricia Ornst participated in a panel discussion on “Flying with Sustainable Aviation Fuel: The Future is Now”

Illinois Sustainable Aviation Fuel Conference (Illi nois) – Founding ACAF member – ExxonMobil – represented by Senior Vice President Jack Williams – joined state and local energy and transportation leaders at the inaugural Illinois Sustainable Aviation Fuel Conference held by key stakeholders in this space. Williams participated in a fireside chat and discussed the importance of smart policies to support SAF production. Scaling up SAF would support the creation of high-quality jobs throughout the country – particularly in the Midwest states, including Illinois – and promote domestic energy independence and economic development for years to come.

NREL’s Sustainable Aviation Energy Conference (Te xas) — Founding member of ACAF Delta Air Lines – represented by Vice President of Government Affairs Cherie Wilson – spoke at the Sustainable Aviation Energy Conference hosted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Wilson participated in a panel entitled “The Importance of Federal Industry Collaboration to Achieving Aviation Ecosystem Goals.” Her remarks focused on building a policy framework to help grow America’s CAFs market – highlighting the economic benefits to heartland farmers as well as national efforts to reduce carbon emissions through innovation across the value chain.

Truerra’s Partners in Excellence Summit (Flor ida) – Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor delivered remarks at Truterra’s annual education summit in Clearwater, Florida. She emphasized the importance of scaling the SAF market, particularly to support farmers’ livelihoods across the heartland.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Airlines for America in the Washington Times: “Embracing Sustainable Aviation Fuel will Help American Farmers Thrive”

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:02:19 GMT

AIRLINES FOR AMERICA IN THE WASHINGTON TIMES; "EMBRACING SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL WILL HELP AMERICAN FARMERS THRIVE"

In Case You Missed It: In a Washington Times opinion piece, Airlines for America’s (A4A) Chief Sustainability Officer Kevin Welsh highlights the clear economic and national security benefits of scaling up American sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. Welsh argues that SAF is the future of aviation, highlighting its ability to reduce carbon emissions, create American jobs and increase domestic energy independence overall. A4A is a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, a dynamic coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturers, energy and agricultural sectors, united in their mission to advance the production and adoption of clean aviation fuels.

“One of the most promising opportunities for further progress is to increase the production of sustainable aviation fuel. SAF can reduce emissions from aviation, support job creation in rural communities and increase U.S. energy independence,” Welsh writes.

Embracing sustainable aviation fuel will help American farmers thrive

By Kevin Welsh

The Washington Times

April 17, 2024

As U.S. airlines continue to deliver safe and reliable air transportation to millions of Americans every day, our sector is committed to a greener, more sustainable future. U.S. airlines transport over 2.6 million passengers and 61,000 tons of cargo per day, while contributing only 2% of domestic greenhouse gas emissions. Looking ahead, we have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

When it comes to the environment, airlines have a strong track record of reducing emissions and noise and consistently improving fuel efficiency, which further reduces fuel costs and emissions. We are proud of our industry’s environmental track record, and we are committed to meeting aggressive goals to build a brighter future for generations to come.

One of the most promising opportunities for further progress is to increase the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). SAF can reduce emissions from aviation, support job creation in rural communities and increase U.S. energy independence.

SAF is derived from renewable sources, including agricultural products and wastes. It can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuels, making it a crucial tool in reducing the sector’s environmental impact. SAF is also compatible with today’s aircraft and infrastructure, meaning that airlines are already using SAF today, and production and use of SAF can be substantially increased without waiting for new technologies to be introduced.

Importantly, the potential for SAF extends well beyond the aviation sector and across the American economy. Investing in SAF production can create jobs in rural areas, support farmers, and stimulate innovation in renewable energy technologies. This not only benefits the environment but also strengthens local economies and relies on American-grown crops and resources.

One of the main challenges to increasing the production and use of SAF is cost. SAF is not yet commercially viable at scale and is approximately 3-5 times more expensive to produce than traditional jet fuels, mainly due to limited production capacity and economies of scale. Governments and stakeholders across the value chain must collaborate to incentivize investment in SAF production and bring down costs to make SAF more competitive and economically viable.

While important progress was made with the passage of the first-ever federal SAF tax credit in 2022, the short duration of the credit and associated clean fuel production credit (5 years combined), does not provide enough certainty or longevity to meaningfully catalyze investment in SAF production at scale.

Congress should extend and improve the SAF tax credit to provide increased certainty and support for dramatically increasing the production of SAF, while also seizing other opportunities to support American aviation and agriculture. One such opportunity is the inclusion of Rep. Max Miller’s (R-Ohio) “Farm to Fly Act” in the must-pass Farm Bill.

Despite the challenges, the benefits of transitioning to SAF are clear. Not only does SAF offer a way to significantly reduce aviation emissions; it also supports job creation, economic growth in rural America and technological innovation. As we look to the future, we must prioritize the development and deployment of SAF as part of a broader strategy to create a cleaner, more sustainable aviation industry and achieve ambitious environmental goals.

Kevin Welsh is Airlines for America’s vice president of environmental affairs and chief sustainability officer.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Growth Energy CEO: “The Fate of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is in the Hands of Biden Regulators”

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 19:02:57 GMT

GROWTH ENERGY CEO: "THE FATE OF SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUELS IS IN THE HANDS OF BIDEN REGULATORS"

In Case You Missed It: Emily Skor – the CEO of Growth Energy, a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) – argues in a Des Moines Register opinion piece that the Biden Administration's pending decision regarding how the GREET model will be used to calculate greenhouse emission reduction from bioethanol-produced Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) will determine whether SAF is a “boon or a bust for American farmers.” Skor highlights the need for a regulatory framework that incentivizes and rewards farmers for reducing their carbon footprint, arguing that breaking down the financial barrier to practicing climate smart agriculture is a win-win for farmers and the environment alike. ACAF is a national coalition that brings together leaders from the aviation, energy and agricultural sectors to expand America’s clean aviation fuels market, including SAF.

“Heartland farmers await the administration’s decision process with bated breath. If the revised GREET model includes updates that appropriately value climate smart agricultural practices to calculate the lifecycle greenhouse gas impact of SAF, American farmers will be a step closer to reaping immense economic benefits – an opportunity they cannot afford to lose,” Skor writes in the Des Moines Register. “ GREET stands to incentivize emission reduction, encourage further climate smart agriculture practices — by raising the value of low-carbon corn and soybeans for those farmers that utilize no or low-till farming, for example — and catalyze our domestic SAF production, all while helping our nation’s growers. What is there to lose?”

The fate of sustainable aviation fuel is in the hands of Biden regulators

By Emily Skor

Des Moines Register

April 19, 2024

Given the inherent challenges of reducing carbon emissions in air travel, the president’s goal is significant. That’s because SAF, a homegrown fuel source from America’s heartland, represents the most promising, in-production and scalable lever to help airlines achieve a net zero future. However, the reality is that today, there’s not enough SAF produced annually to fuel global commercial aviation for even one week.

SAF is a win-win for American farmers, the economy and our environment. In fact, building the domestic SAF market with American-produced bioethanol will provide an economic boon to our nation’s farmers and growers. A recent study commissioned by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association predicts 224,440 new jobs associated with SAF in the Midwest alone in the coming decades.

SAF, a clean alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based jet fuel, is essential to decarbonizing air travel and will make America more energy secure in the face of increasing global instability. But the market for SAF can’t build itself — the Biden administration must put the right framework in place to catalyze production.

Whether SAF reaches its full potential depends largely on regulatory decisions the president’s administration is making right now. A key flashpoint in this process is how pending revisions to the Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Technologies — otherwise known as GREET — model will be used to calculate the total environmental impact and lifecycle greenhouse emission reduction from bioethanol-produced SAF.

The Department of Agriculture and the Argonne National Laboratory have already found that corn-based bioethanol cuts lifecycle carbon emissions , and with climate smart agriculture practices, SAF has the potential to remove even more carbon than is generated in its production cycle.

Many farmers understand the importance and value of climate-smart agricultural practices to the environment and future of their farms. We are already seeing farmers across the Midwest deploy practices that improve the integrity of the soil, which acts as a carbon sink, such as no-till farming, planting cover crops and using sustainable fertilizer. Using a method like no-till ensures that less carbon is released into the atmosphere than through traditional practices by not disrupting the soil as much while using less tractor fuel. Coupling that technique with sustainable fertilizers can truly make a difference across hundreds of acres. But reducing the carbon footprint of American agriculture is a collaborative effort. If we want to advance sustainable farming more widely, we must first invest in encouraging more farmers to deploy these practices.

Farmers would suffer significant financial losses — and be unable to make their practices more sustainable — if policymakers place stringent carbon-reduction requirements on them without a regulatory framework based on reality. For example, the use of cover crops has been demonstrated to protect against yield loss , particularly after heavy rains or storms, mitigating risk to the farmer; however, the cost of crop insurance under the federal government is rising due to climate risk and does not yet appropriately value these practices. We must incentivize and reward farmers for reducing their carbon footprint; breaking down the financial barrier to practicing climate smart agriculture is a win-win for farmers and the environment alike. We cannot demand that carbon reduction goals be met without thinking through the entire value chain, starting with our farmers and growers.

Heartland farmers await the administration’s decision process with bated breath. If the revised GREET model includes updates that appropriately value climate smart agricultural practices to calculate the lifecycle greenhouse gas impact of SAF, American farmers will be a step closer to reaping immense economic benefits — an opportunity they cannot afford to lose. GREET stands to incentivize emission reduction, encourage further climate smart agriculture practices — by raising the value of low-carbon corn and soybeans for those farmers that utilize no or low-till farming, for example — and catalyze our domestic SAF production, all while helping our nation’s growers. What is there to lose?

The president’s SAF Grand Challenge hangs in the balance. Decisions that regulators make in the coming weeks about the revisions to the GREET model will determine whether SAF is a boon or a bust for American farmers.

The Biden administration can’t miss this opportunity — and neither can this country.

Emily Skor is the CEO of Growth Energy, a biofuels trade association. Growth Energy is a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, a coalition of companies and organizations focused on promoting the economic benefits of building a robust U.S. market for clean aviation fuels.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

High Plains Journal Op-Ed: “At CERAWeek, biofuels are the solution”

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:52:36 GMT

HIGH PLAINS JOURNAL OP-ED : "AT CERAWEEK, BIOFUELS ARE THE SOLUTION"

In Case You Missed It: Following Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor’s participation in the “Business Models to Scale Biofuels” at the CERAWeek global energy conference, she published an op-ed diving deeper into how biofuels can bring together the agriculture and energy industries. Skor identified sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as the most promising opportunity to expand biofuels markets in the future, helping to achieve carbon-neutral goals while keeping American agriculture at the forefront of clean energy solutions.

“SAF wouldn’t be made entirely with a bioethanol feedstock, but it is the biggest market opportunity for this industry since the 1970s, and bioethanol remains one of the only feedstocks that both lowers carbon emissions and is scalable to meet demand,” Skor wrote in the High Plains Journal (Dodge City, Kansas).

Growth Energy is a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, a dynamic coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturers, energy, and agriculture sectors, united in their mission to advance the production and adoption of clean aviation fuels.

At CERAWeek, biofuels are the solution

By: Emily Skor

High Plains Journal

April 12, 2024

Excerpt regarding Sustainable Aviation Fuel: “...today we’re seeing a surge in new opportunities for partnerships on everything from sustainable aviation fuel to green chemicals and bioethanol coproducts like food-grade CO2 and nutrient-rich animal feed. At the same time, growth in one biofuel can impact opportunities for another, as with the use of a bioethanol coproduct—corn oil—for the production of renewable diesel.

For example, the SAF market offers the potential to reach 20 to 25 billion gallons, which would require 36 billion gallons of bioethanol – nearly twice the volume of bioethanol produced annually in the U.S. today. SAF wouldn’t be made entirely with a bioethanol feedstock, but it is the biggest market opportunity for this industry since the 1970s, and bioethanol remains one of the only feedstocks that both lowers carbon emissions and is scalable to meet demand.”

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

At NREL Conference, ACAF Founding Member Emphasizes Importance of Smart Policy Framework to Catalyze Clean Aviation Fuels Market

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:31:26 GMT

At NREL Conference, ACAF Founding Member Emphasizes Importance of Smart Policy Framework to Catalyze Clean Aviation Fuels Market

Grapevine, Texas — Cherie Wilson, Vice President of Government Affairs - Sustainability at Delta Air Lines , an Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) founding member, recently spoke at the Sustainable Aviation Energy Conference hosted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Wilson participated in a panel entitled “The Importance of Federal Industry Collaboration to Achieving Aviation Ecosystem Goals.” Her remarks focused on building a policy framework to help grow America’s clean aviation fuels (CAFs) market – highlighting the economic benefits to heartland farmers as well as national efforts to reduce carbon emissions through innovation across the value chain.

Commenting on how policymakers can help catalyze the tremendous economic and environmental benefits of CAFs, Wilson said: “Achieving national decarbonization goals means putting in place the right policy framework today. Policies that support the expansion of America’s clean aviation fuels market will help create jobs in rural communities, advance sustainable farming practices, and boost American energy independence. This panel discussion was representative of the type of forward looking industry collaboration that is necessary to successfully build the American CAFs market, advancing the most promising, in-production and scalable lever to accelerate progress toward a net zero future.”

CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to using conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and encompass the universe of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) – biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources, and renewable energy resources, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

Wilson was joined on the panel by Robert Horton, Vice President of Environmental Affairs and Sustainability at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport; Joanne Morello, Program Manager for Sustainable Aviation Fuel at General Electric Aerospace Research Center; and Dave Ulane, Director of the Division of Aeronautics at the Colorado Department of Transportation.

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

ACAF Founding Member, ExxonMobil, Participates in Inaugural SAF Conference in Illinois: “The Time to Act is Now”

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 21:18:29 GMT

ACAF Founding Member, ExxonMobil, Participates in Inaugural SAF Conference in Illinois: “The Time to Act is Now”

LISLE, IL — Founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), ExxonMobil, joined state and local energy and transportation leaders at the inaugural Illinois Sustainable Aviation Fuel Conference held by key stakeholders in this space. Jack Williams, Senior Vice President at ExxonMobil, participated in a fireside chat and discussed the importance of smart policies to support Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production. Scaling up SAF would support the creation of high-quality jobs throughout the country – particularly in the Midwest states, including Illinois – and promote domestic energy independence and economic development for years to come.

FarmWeekNow reports:

“ExxonMobil Senior Vice President Jack Williams said the aviation market continues to grow.

“‘It’s a big market today and it’s going to get a lot bigger. And SAF is riding in on a white horse,’ he said during the inaugural ‘Leading the Way: Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Illinois Conference’ in Lisle March 21-22.

“Worldwide, aviation accounts for 2% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and 12% of all CO2 emissions from transportation.

“‘As a drop-in fuel, meaning it can be mixed with traditional jet fuel up to 50%, SAF can gradually be increased over time,’ Williams said.

“A handful of pathways for producing SAF are approved, and include a range of different biomasses and feedstock types, including ethanol…

“‘Good policy also is key,’ Williams said. And several policy components are necessary: life cycle-emissions-based, technology neutral and market-driven.

“‘The ingredients are in place, the time to act is now,’ Williams said.”

ACAF is a national coalition of the nation’s largest industrial sectors, from farmers to fuel producers and aviation to agribusiness. The organization is focused on promoting the economic benefits of building a robust U.S. market for clean aviation fuels.

The “Leading the Way: Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Illinois” conference brought together key stakeholders in the energy, transportation and agricultural industries to discuss how the growth of SAF in the U.S. can transform industries, create jobs and reduce carbon emissions.

Toledo Blade Op-Ed: “Ohio is Poised to Power the Next Generation of Flight”

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:40:15 GMT

Toledo Blade Op-Ed: “Ohio is Poised to Power the Next Generation of Flight”

In Case You Missed It: President of the Ohio Soybean Association and third-generation farmer Rusty Goebel authored an op-ed in the Toledo Blade calling on lawmakers to support policies to boost the production and scale of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Domestic SAF production will not only pave the way for decarbonizing the aviation industry, but it will also create good-paying jobs for Americans and support the agricultural industry, especially throughout the state of Ohio. Goebel argues that Ohio’s leadership in aviation innovation, manufacturing strength and booming agricultural production make the state a prime location to lead SAF production in the United States.

The Ohio Soybean Association is a founding member of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, a diverse coalition of the nation’s largest industrial sectors that is focused on building a robust U.S. market for clean aviation fuels.

Ohio is Poised to Power Next Generation of Flight

By: Rusty Goebel

Toledo Blade

March 30, 2024

Today, we once again have an enormous opportunity to lead the nation with game-changing innovation in the development and scale of clean aviation fuel, specifically bio-based sustainable aviation fuel or SAF. Powering flights with homegrown SAF will not only create good paying jobs for Ohioans, but it will create a ripple effect across our entire state’s economy.

Demand for SAF already exists — both in the U.S. and globally. That’s because businesses and governments recognize that SAF is the most promising lever that exists today to decarbonize the aviation industry. But there’s a huge problem: there isn’t enough SAF in the world to power U.S. airlines for a single day. And therein lies the opportunity. Ohio already has all the key ingredients to supercharge the SAF market. With our robust aerospace industry, manufacturing leadership, and hard-working farmers, Ohio can and should get in on the ground floor of a movement that is about to take off.

There are 25,000 row crop farms across our state, 97 percent of which are family-run, representing a significant part of Ohio’s economy. Of particular importance, Ohio is home to two essential feedstocks for SAF: soybeans and corn. Ohio soybean yields rank fifth in the nation, and we produced the seventh- largest supply of corn in America in 2022 — resulting in over 3 billion in export revenue every year for the two crops combined.

Meanwhile, Ohio’s well-earned reputation as a powerhouse in aerospace manufacturing and R&D makes us well-suited to lead the future of sustainable flight. Our state is the number one supplier to aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing, with over 565 aerospace and aviation firms supporting 110,000 employees. We boast the third-largest manufacturing work force in the country and are number seven in America for aerospace and defense jobs. This in-place work force means that Ohio already has its foot on the gas and is ready to mobilize to capture investments in SAF production which will deliver economic benefits for years to come.

To reach their emissions goals, airlines are vocal about supporting the nascent SAF market and are committed to buying millions of gallons of SAF when it becomes available. There’s only one piece of the puzzle missing: a growth-oriented policy framework from lawmakers that will enable the scale of homegrown SAF, including longer-term production tax credits for SAF feedstocks like soybeans and corn, and carbon intensity models that recognize the emission-reduction potential of SAF.

SAF is a smart economic investment for Ohio and America. It makes sense for jobs, the economy, American energy security, and will meaningfully reduce the aviation industry’s carbon emissions. With pro growth, pro-innovation policies in place, Ohio stands to lead the nation in getting SAF off the ground and into the air.

Rusty Goebel is a third-generation farmer and the president of the Ohio Soybean Association. The Ohio Soybean Association is a founding member of the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels coalition.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

What They’re Saying: Founding Members of ACAF Highlight Benefits of Growing America’s SAF Market at National Ag & Food Policy Summit

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:19:18 GMT

What They’re Saying: Founding Members of ACAF Highlight Benefits of Growing America’s SAF Market at National Ag & Food Policy Summit

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Founding members of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), Delta Air Lines and Airlines for America discussed the economic benefits of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for American farmers at Agri-Pulse’s annual Ag & Food Policy Summit held last week in Washington.

This national conference brought together agriculture and energy industry leaders, policy experts and elected officials to focus on key topics such as biomanufacturing, climate-smart agriculture practices and sustainable aviation – including the future of SAF. ACAF is a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, energy and agricultural sectors.

Delta Air Lines Chief Sustainability Officer Amelia DeLuca outlined the needed strategies and policies to grow the domestic SAF market during a panel discussion moderated by Airlines for America (A4A) Vice President for Environmental Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer Kevin Welsh . World Energy CEO Gene Gebolys and Gevo CEO Dr. Patrick Gruber also participated in the conversation.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

Amelia DeLuca, C hief Sustainability Officer, Delta Air Lines (ACAF Founding Member): “Sustainable aviation fuel is not only the biggest lever; it’s the only lever we have to decarbonize…Our perspective is that there are four major things we need to make the success of SAFs a reality: 1) private investment and financing, 2) production and feedstock scaling, 3) federal and state incentives and 4) stable policy. The states have a huge role to play here…they know it’s good for them at the state level. It’s good for their economy, and it’s good for farmers. Delta launched the first of its kind federal coalition, the Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels, to bring the entire value chain together and say we need to stick together and figure this out because it matters .”

“ What gives me a lot of optimism about the future is the amount of interest we have from our travelers to know more and to be part of the journey. We feel that support every day…and we are going to keep the trust by doing everything we can today while SAF continues to scale—which it will.”

Ge ne Gebolys, CEO, World Energy : “ We don’t look at each other as competitors because we’re all trying to build the same system. It requires all of us, and it requires all of you . We have to build out the system, so we can deliver the value of decarbonization in aviation effectively.”

Dr. Patrick Gruber, CEO , Gevo : “We have an interesting opportunity to add value to agriculture right here. We can pay people more for their corn. Now we have a new attribute we can track, and we can pay more per bushel. That’s a big deal. These plants will be built in rural parts of the country. Thousands and thousands of jobs, billions and billions of dollars…this is how we do energy infrastructure for the future. It’s not one thing or the other, it’s how these pieces work together in developed economies and change the world at the same time. ”

“The GREET model is the gold standard. It works, and it’s accurate. We like real data, real science, measured, recorded, verified – that’s what is important. … This won’t be done tomorrow, but the key is to get it right and to get it right right now. We need an enduring policy, not something that will be unwound.”

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

What They’re Saying at CERAWeek 2024: ACAF Founding Members Call for Smart Policy Framework to Reduce Carbon Emissions, Highlight Economic Benefits of SAF

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 20:52:05 GMT

What They’re Saying at CERAWeek 2024: ACAF Founding Members Call for Smart Policy Framework to Reduce Carbon Emissions, Highlight Economic Benefits of SAF

HOUSTON — Founding members of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) ExxonMobil, Growth Energy, and Delta Air Lines recently returned from CERAWeek in Houston, Texas where they discussed the need for policies to reduce carbon emissions – including scaling the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Creating a robust market for SAF will not only support airlines’ sustainability goals, but it will support the creation of high-quality jobs in farming, manufacturing and construction across the country and promote domestic energy independence and economic development for years to come.

CERAWeek, a global convening of energy industry leaders, policymakers and experts, gathered to share learnings, plans and perspectives on the current state of global energy markets and policy pertaining to energy security and sustainable energy policy – including scaling the domestic SAF market.

Speakers from founding members of ACAF, a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, energy and agricultural sectors, included ExxonMobil’s Chief Executive Officer Darren Woods , Growth Energy’s Chief Executive Officer Emily Skor and Delta Air Lines’ Managing Director of State and Local Government Affairs Patricia Ornst , participated in dialogue throughout the week on the strategies needed to shape and transition the world of energy policy today.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

Darren Woods, CEO, ExxonMobil: “Ultimately, the world needs to decarbonize…we need to do more to reduce emissions, and I think the IRA is a good step towards that.”

"There are no markets that are driving climate emission reductions without government policy and support. ”

Emily Skor, CEO, Growth Energy: “ Through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) we can monetize the value of low-carbon farming and we can pay a premium for that low-carbon corn because of the tax credits provided for in the IRA [IRA’s 40B sustainable aviation fuel credit and 45Z clean fuel production credit].”

“Washington has to send a signal and give us the guidance on the tax code that says ‘we will give you credit for everything you do on the farm’ …we’ve got to make sure the modeling of carbon intensity allows bioethanol to be competitive.”

Patricia Ornst, Managing Director of State and Local Government Affairs, Delta Air Lines: “The future of SAF creates an incredible opportunity for the United States. With around 90 percent of our carbon emissions coming from fuel, SAF is the most important lever we have to decarbonize aviation…it’s also a significant economic boost for the country’s clean energy economy, while creating jobs and supporting our farmers. ”

“We are committed to working with states to advance SAF development, which in return, supports individual state climate initiatives and a more sustainable future for all.”

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Albany Times Union Op-Ed: A Chance for New York to Decrease Emissions from Air Travel

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 13:34:15 GMT

Albany Times Union Op-Ed: A Chance for New York to Decrease Emissions from Air Travel

In Case You Missed It: Chief Sustainability Officer for Delta Air Lines, Amelia DeLuca, authored an op-ed in the Albany Times Union calling on the New York Legislature to pass a clean fuel standard. As airlines work toward a net zero goal by 2050, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is one of the most promising ways to reach that goal and reduce carbon emissions. In the piece, DeLuca highlights the economic and job creation benefits of building the SAF market in addition to the positive environmental impact.

A Chance for New York to Decrease Emissions from Air Travel

By: Amelia DeLuca

Albany Times Union

March 21, 2024

Right now, transportation accounts for approximately a third of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., the largest share of any sector. The global aviation sector alone is responsible for 1 billion tons of emissions, 3% of the world’s total. At the root of the problem is airlines’ dependence on petroleum-based fuel options.

Currently, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is the most promising lever to accelerate the airline industry on a path to net zero by 2050. A drop-in renewable fuel first piloted in 2009, SAF is produced using biological materials like food and yard waste, woody biomass, fats, greases and oils, and other feedstocks rather than petroleum. SAF can reduce aircraft emissions by up to 80% and offers a much-needed alternative to our greatest carbon emitter, conventional jet fuel.

At Delta, jet fuel makes up approximately 90% of our carbon emissions, meaning a viable alternative like SAF, useable in today’s aircraft engines, could dramatically transform the entire airline sector.

The problem now, however, is scale and lack of parity compared to other alternative fuels like renewable diesel. There isn’t enough SAF in the world right now to power commercial aviation for a single day – with an estimated 35 billion gallons needed in the U.S. alone by 2050. Growing a viable market for this fuel source requires a joint government and industry approach that bridges different sectors and interests to signal demand and attract investment to jumpstart production.

This year, legislators in Albany have the opportunity to do just that: passing a clean fuel standard would incentivize producers to create low-carbon fuels that can power existing cars, trucks and planes.

Only three states in the country have adopted programs like the clean fuel standard – California, Oregon and Washington. California, the first state to implement a low-carbon fuel standard, added SAF as an opt-in fuel in 2019 and currently leads the country in SAF production. Since then, U.S. production has increased from 2.4 million gallons in 2019 to 14 million gallons in 2023, with the lion’s share of production and uplift taking place in California. Further, according to the University of California, the state is now on track to replace 100% of fossil diesel by 2028 or 2029, far outpacing New York.

In addition to the vast environmental benefits, this type of transportation standard represents a significant economic value proposition, with the potential to promote meaningful job growth in the clean-energy sector. By enacting this standard, state legislators can also ensure no one state or region monopolizes the SAF market, meaning greater innovation, job creation and economic activity.

New York has a strong record of ensuring equitable clean energy access. State incentives like the Charge NY initiative catapulted the electric vehicle industry, making EV ownership a reality for more New Yorkers looking to play a role in fighting climate change. That same enthusiasm must now also be applied to SAF. Passing the clean fuel standard and enabling the development of a robust SAF market is a logical next step for leaders in Albany to create a more sustainable future and future of travel for all New Yorkers.

Amelia DeLuca is Delta Air Lines' chief sustainability officer.

Detroit News Op-Ed: “Michigan SAF Bill will help drive sustainable aviation”

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 23:02:52 GMT

Detroit News Op-Ed: “Michigan SAF Bill will help drive sustainable aviation”

In Case You Missed It: As Michigan works to produce 100% of its energy from clean sources by 2040, Amelia DeLuca, Chief Sustainability Officer for Delta Air Lines, makes the case in the Detroit News for why the state should prioritize legislation to help scale the market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — a bill that will also work to create jobs and benefit Michigan farmers.

DeLuca: Bill will help drive sustainable aviation

By Amelia DeLuca

Detroit News

March 14, 2024

As leaders in the aviation industry, Delta Air Lines hopes Michigan will continue its efforts to help protect our planet by passing legislation to help decarbonize the aviation industry, a hard-to-abate sector. That’s why we’re advocating for the passage of Senate Bill 447, introduced by state Sen. Sam Singh, D- East Lansing, which awards key tax credits for the purchase of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

For Delta, driving ambitious sustainability goals is not only good for our planet, it’s a business imperative. Conventional jet fuel accounts for approximately 90% of our airline’s carbon emissions, so a viable alternative like SAF could dramatically transform the entire industry.

SAF is the most promising lever known today to accelerate the airline industry on a path to net zero carbon emissions by 2050; and SB 447 represents a key example of how we can get there, by turning local solutions into global solutions.

SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% and provides an alternative to our greatest carbon emitter – conventional jet fuel. The beauty of SAF is that it is available now, and it can be used in today’s aircraft engines.

There’s just one problem: there isn’t enough SAF to fuel the world’s commercial airlines for a single day. As an industry, it's estimated that 35 billion gallons are needed in the U.S. alone by 2050 .

Growing a viable market for this fuel will require a joint government and industry approach that bridges different sectors and interests in a meaningful way. Michigan has already made a commitment to use clean energy and invest in a more sustainable future, and state legislators can continue to make it a point of emphasis by prioritizing policies like SB 447.

Approval of this legislation would also be beneficial to agriculture in Michigan, which is an industry that contributes more than $104.7 billion annually to the state’s economy. Farmers can continue to earn money by growing biomass crops for SAF production, providing feedstocks to the market, while also securing benefits like improved soil quality and reducing nutrient losses for their farms.

The potential for job growth is feasible for other job industries as well, such as construction to build biorefineries and manufacturing for operating said biorefineries and infrastructure.

Since taking office, Gov. Whitmer has put Michigan on the map when it comes to fighting climate change. She’s also shown she has a plan to create jobs for the people of Michigan and boost the economy. Passing SB 447 is a logical next step to achieving both.

Amelia DeLuca is the chief sustainability officer for Delta Air Lines

Aiken Standard Op-Ed: Clean aviation fuels can take flight from South Carolina

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 20:43:00 GMT

Aiken Standard Op-Ed: Clean aviation fuels can take flight from South Carolina

In Case You Missed It: J.D. Chaplin, a row crop farmer and chairman of the Darlington County Republican Party in South Carolina, authored an opinion piece in the Aiken Standard highlighting the economic benefits to the Palmetto State of building a strong American market for Clean Aviation Fuels (CAFs).

Noting that agriculture and aerospace are two of the state’s largest industries, Chaplin makes the case that South Carolina is poised to lead the future of sustainable air travel. Additionally, he emphasizes the crucial role that CAFs will provide for American energy security at a time when it's needed most.

Read the full article in the Aiken Standard , or below:

Guest column: Clean aviation fuels can take flight from South Carolina

By J.D. Chaplin

As governments and businesses work together to reduce carbon emissions from airplanes, a consensus is forming around the most effective lever: Clean aviation fuels (CAFs), such as biomass-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). With the right policies in place, South Carolina has an opportunity to lead in building a strong American SAF market, spurring job and economic growth across the Palmetto State.

Currently, there isn’t enough SAF in the world to power U.S. airlines for a single day – but that’s where the opportunity comes in. SAF can be derived from crops like corn and soybeans, which are two of the largest crops produced by South Carolina farmers. In fact, our state is uniquely positioned to take advantage of a budding SAF market given two of our most significant sectors are agribusiness and aerospace.

Agribusiness , the largest economic sector in South Carolina, boasts $42 billion in economic impact and provides over 200,000 jobs. There are nearly 25,000 farms in South Carolina producing everything from corn and soybeans to cotton, cattle, peanuts, eggs, and wheat. In 2022, South Carolina’s soybean and corn production alone was valued at over $500 million .

Meanwhile, aerospace is the state’s fourth-largest export and employs 136,000 South Carolinians — constituting a $28.8 billion economic impact. Workers in our state produce some of the world’s best-known commercial and military aircraft.

Thanks to the strength of our agribusiness and aerospace sectors, South Carolina is best positioned to lead the future of sustainable air travel. If we build an attractive market for SAF here in our state, the windfall for South Carolina’s economy will be substantial. The U.S. market for SAF is expected to reach $4.35 billion by 2032 — a remarkable expansion from its 2023 estimated value of $180.75 million .

The full spectrum of businesses, including family farmers, would benefit. Whether growing the crops used for SAF, or the research and development that goes into building the most efficient aircraft engines in the world; when we work across sectors to support the developing SAF market in South Carolina, good-paying jobs will most certainly follow.

In addition to the myriad benefits to South Carolina, scaling the production of clean aviation fuels will provide crucial support for American energy security. Wars worldwide have made it clear that the U.S. must be independent of unpredictable and erratic foreign actors, especially regarding our most critical resources. Domestic energy production and secure supply chains for critical fuels must be rapidly developed. American farmers can provide us with the renewable resources we need to diversify our energy mix and secure American energy independence.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, people and businesses in South Carolina spent $ 436 million on jet fuel in 2022 — none of which was produced in our state. However, South Carolina ranks tenth in the U.S. in biomass generation. Scaling SAF and all CAFs creates an opportunity to keep money spent on fuel right here at home.

Now, policymakers in Washington, D.C., must clear remaining obstacles to unlock the full potential of clean aviation fuel as an American energy solution. Passing, strengthening, and extending targeted tax incentives would incentivize investment in dozens of new biorefineries and regional feedstock supply infrastructure across the country and right here in South Carolina.

Moving forward, we can continue buying billions of barrels of imported petroleum jet fuel year after year, missing chances to reinvigorate rural America and break energy dependence. Or we can invest assertively in homegrown SAF and other clean aviation fuel production to achieve true fuel security, boost South Carolina’s farm economy, and lead in the 21st-century energy race.

The choice seems clear.

ICYMI: Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen Voices Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel During State of the State Address

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:12:14 GMT

ICYMI: Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen Voices Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel During State of the State Address

Republican Governor Emphasizes Economic Benefits of Building State’s Bioeconomy

What They’re Saying: Clean Aviation Fuels Take Center Stage at Prominent Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 21:26:03 GMT

What They’re Saying: Clean Aviation Fuels Take Center Stage at Prominent Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

[ALTOONA, IOWA] — The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association held its annual Renewable Fuels Summit on Thursday, January 11 — the Midwest’s largest biofuels policy conference. Attendees included biofuels producers and supporters, policy experts and elected officials from across the U.S. — who came together to highlight the promising future of clean aviation fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), the best known decarbonization lever the aviation industry has in the near-to-mid term on its journey to net-zero.

As part of a national effort to promote the economic benefits of SAF and all clean aviation fuels, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, energy and agricultural sectors attended alongside its founding members Delta Air Lines and Growth Energy.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

Emily Skor, CEO - Growth Energy (ACAF Founding Member): “What was just a co-product is now the most important nutrient-rich animal feed in the world. Moving forward, our members are well-positioned to supply the feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel, a potential 25 billion gallon U.S. market in the decades ahead.”

Jeff Davidman, Vice President, State & Local Government Affairs - Delta Air Lines (ACAF Founding Member): “So in the next six years, we have to get from 20 million to 3 billion gallons [of SAF] just here in the U.S. to meet our goals. That provides incredible opportunities for the Midwest, for Iowa and for farmers here.”

Monte Shaw, Executive Director - Iowa Renewable Fuels Association: “Finally, the world’s desire to decarbonize air travel presents the largest opportunity to transform rural America since the advent of corn hybrids. Think how the creation of a 14-billion-gallon domestic ethanol market for light duty vehicles pulled rural America out of the stagnation of the 1990s. Now, try to fathom the impact of adding a 35-billion-gallon sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market. It’s mind boggling. Keep in mind that worldwide SAF demand is expected to be 100-billion-gallons by 2050.”

Tom Vilsack, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture: “Vilsack, a former Iowa governor, said he expects federal officials will issue a ‘strong, significant message’ to the ethanol industry in March that it’s going to be part of low-carbon jet fuel production. ‘That is a big, big deal. Big, big deal,’ Vilsack said…”

Governor Kim Reynolds, Iowa: “While I was encouraged again to see the guidance from the Treasury Department that would allow ethanol and biodiesel to be part of aviation's sustainable fuel solution, as you know and as I’ve indicated, we still must continue to hold the Administration to its promises.”

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels Announces Participation In Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:54:24 GMT

Americans For Clean Aviation Fuels Announces Participation In Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

[WASHINGTON, DC] — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF), a national coalition of industry leaders from the aviation, energy and agricultural sectors, announced today that it will join 12 other ‘gold-level’ organizations in sponsoring the Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit in Altoona, Iowa, on January 11, 2024. Speakers from ACAF’s founding members, including Growth Energy and Delta Air Lines, are scheduled to deliver remarks during this major gathering of biofuels industry leaders.

“We're honored to sponsor and actively participate in this year’s Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit. With the eyes of the nation on Iowa right now, we look forward to ensuring that clean aviation fuels are part of the discussion surrounding America’s energy future,” said Nick Boeyink, ACAF States Director. “Growing the domestic market for clean aviation fuels will help power America’s economic engine by creating quality jobs in the agricultural, feedstock production, energy generation, construction and manufacturing sectors. CAF investments will also help make America more energy independent, reducing reliance on foreign energy sources.”

ACAF’s sponsorship of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit is part of a national effort to promote the economic benefits of building a robust market for clean aviation fuels (CAFs). CAFs provide an environmentally sound alternative to using conventional jet fuel by significantly reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. CAFs encompass the universe of sustainable aviation fuels: biofuels or synthetic fuels derived from renewable biomass feedstocks, waste resources and renewable energy resources, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen.

Summit attendees can learn more about ACAF’s mission and priorities — including its commitment to fostering awareness and collaboration within the biofuels landscape — at the Coalition’s onsite booth (#5).

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF)

Des Moines Register Op-Ed: Clean aviation fuels check the boxes for agriculture, for America

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 13:12:43 GMT

Clean aviation fuels check the boxes for agriculture, for America

Thanks to American innovation, we have the technology, sustainable feedstocks, and entrepreneurial spirit to build a world-leading clean aviation industry right here at home.

By: Kirk Leeds, CEO of the Iowa Soybean Association

Now is the time to build support for rapidly scaling one solution in particular: clean aviation fuels (CAF), which encompass the entire universe of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) made from US-grown crops, agricultural coproducts, and other renewable feedstocks, as well as captured carbon and hydrogen. Biomass-based SAF is the best decarbonization lever the aviation industry has right now on its journey to net zero, predominately because SAF can be used in current aircraft engines and because the infrastructure in the U.S. already exists to transport large amounts of it. Powering passenger jets with homegrown SAF rather than imported fossil jet fuel checks all the boxes for an America-first energy strategy.

Leveraging the natural bounty of America’s farms and forests without imposing new land or environmental pressures is an untapped resource for scaling SAF. These sustainable sources offer a reliable domestic substitute for the millions of barrels of petroleum-based jet fuel we import each day from unstable or unfriendly regimes. Our farmers can supply the feedstock, and American workers can refine it into secure, low-carbon jet fuel.

Scaling up the production for SAF and all CAFs will create tens of thousands of jobs in rural areas from feedstock harvesting to biorefinery construction and operations. These plants provide stable middle-class careers for American workers in agriculture, engineering, plant operations, logistics, and more. Most credible analyses of the US industry for these low-carbon jet fuels predict tens of thousands of jobs created as production ramps up to billions of gallons over the next decade.

Transitioning from jet fuel to SAF will also provide new revenue streams for farmers at a relatively flat commodity prices and high input costs. Early movers in the industry are already contracting with regional farmers to grow carinata, camelina and other dedicated energy crops for biofuel production. As the market expands, demand for these oilseed crops, along with corn, soybeans and agricultural residues will drive new income for rural communities.

Now, policymakers in Washington, D.C. must clear remaining obstacles to unlock the full potential of clean aviation fuel as an American energy solution. Passing, strengthening, and extending targeted tax incentives would incentivize investment in dozens of new biorefineries and regional feedstock supply infrastructure across the country.

This investment can pay dividends over time. America’s global leadership in biofuels innovation positions our country to dominate the future export market for clean aviation fuel. Europe, Asia, and beyond will turn to U.S. companies to supply sustainable jet fuel just as they did for our oil and gas. Through smart policy, we can replicate the shale revolution success story.

We have manifold reasons to lead the charge on CAF as a strategic American fuel choice. It promotes self-sufficiency and stability by reducing dependence on imported Middle East jet fuel that strains our trade balance and creates skilled manufacturing and agricultural jobs vital to our economy. It sustains American farmers with new revenue streams while avoiding diversion of food crops and does so without excessive regulation or costs.

The choice is clear. We can continue buying billions of barrels of imported petroleum jet fuel year after year, missing chances to reinvigorate rural America and break energy dependence. Or we can invest assertively in homegrown SAF and other clean aviation fuel production to achieve true fuel security, boost the farm economy, revitalize the nation’s heartland, and lead in the 21st-century energy race.

Thanks to American innovation, we have the technology, sustainable feedstocks, and entrepreneurial spirit to build a world-leading clean aviation industry right here at home. CAF checks all the boxes for a prudent, conservative, all-American energy strategy.

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Welcomes Long-Awaited Clarifying Guidance to Help Advance SAF in the United States

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 21:12:43 GMT

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Welcomes Long-Awaited Clarifying Guidance to Help Advance SAF in the United States

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) States Director Nick Boeyink released the following statement regarding today’s clarifying guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury that should help advance the market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the U.S.

“ACAF welcomes the Administration’s clarifying guidance that an updated GREET model will be one of the acceptable methods for measuring lifecycle GHG emissions to take advantage of the SAF Blenders Tax Credit – a potential win-win for American farmers, the economy and the environment. We look forward to reviewing the updated model on March 1st. With the right policies in place, SAF can become a homegrown energy source that harnesses the economic power of America’s fields and farmers, while ensuring domestic energy security, and reducing emissions in the aviation sector."

###

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF):

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Coalition Launches

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 23:26:31 GMT

Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels Coalition Launches

National movement unites diverse industries to promote the economic benefits of building a U.S. market for clean aviation fuels

[WASHINGTON, DC] — A transformative new initiative has taken flight with the formation of Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF) , a national coalition comprised of industry leaders from the aviation, manufacturing, energy, and agricultural sectors. ACAF is committed to expanding the use of clean aviation fuels (CAFs), driving national efforts to expand the use of American-grown feedstocks and harnessed energy – benefitting the American economy, heartland farmers and growers, the environment, and national security.

“Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels brings together industry leaders from diverse sectors to highlight the broad benefits of homegrown fuels to our nation’s economy and energy security. We are leading a national movement to build a future where aviation is powered by American energy sources that are good for the economy and our environment,” said Nick Boeyink, ACAF States Director. “Advancing policies to drive investment in the production of CAFs will unleash a powerful economic value chain in America’s heartland and will help drive American job creation, strengthen American farmers, and reduce U.S. reliance on foreign energy.”

In announcing the Coalition, ACAF cited the clear benefits of utilizing alternatives to traditional jet fuel for the nation’s economy, environment and national security. Clean Aviation Fuels:

· Promote American Economic Growth and Job Creation: Expanding the production of CAFs will create and support quality American jobs in agriculture, feedstock production, energy generation, construction, manufacturing, and aviation. By championing the benefits of CAFs to our economy and environment, ACAF will work to grow grassroots support for policies that expand the use of American-grown feedstocks, breathing new life into rural communities.

· Harness American Innovation to Reduce Emissions: While clean aviation fuels, such as SAF produce the same amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as conventional jet fuel, lifecycle GHG emissions reductions are significant due to the use of renewable feedstocks, sustainable agricultural practices, and other emission reduction strategies related to production and transportation of the fuel. SAF can reduce an aircraft’s lifecycle GHG emissions by up to 80% with the potential for net negative emissions.

· Are Ready for Use Now: Notably, SAF is a realistic solution to reducing aircraft lifecycle emissions and is considered a “drop in fuel” for use in current aircraft engines. The production and distribution of SAF can also safely utilize existing refining infrastructure and pipeline capacity, helping to clear a path to widespread adoption.

· Bolster American National Security: By using renewable resources from American farmers, the U.S. can diversify its energy resources and not be dependent on volatile foreign actors who are hostile to the United States. Made from readily available American sources, CAFs will help secure American energy independence.

Media Contact:

Mickey Sundermann

mickey@rokksolutions.com

About Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels (ACAF):