What can we learn from RSB’s study on sustainable feedstock potential in Southeast Asia?
The transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is critical for achieving the aviation industry's decarbonisation goals. As global demand for SAF surges, understanding the potential and sustainability of feedstock sources is essential – not just for the aviation sector, but also for stakeholders in adjacent fields. The recent sustainable feedstock assessment conducted by the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), with support from Boeing, underscores the importance of this research and highlights Southeast Asia's capacity as a key contributor to global SAF production.
Why sustainable feedstock studies matter
Sustainable fuels are the single biggest opportunity today to decarbonise carbon-intensive sectors such as aviation and shipping. And so, to make informed decisions about sustainable fuels, the research provided by sustainable feedstock assessments is foundational. When it comes to SAF, these studies provide a comprehensive analysis of the availability and sustainability of resources essential for its production. For decision-makers beyond the aviation sector, such studies offer critical insights into how strategic policies and investments can be aligned to bolster regional economic growth, support rural development, and enhance environmental outcomes. By leveraging these findings – like the ones published in RSB’s recent sustainable feedstock assessment – stakeholders can establish robust infrastructure and policies that optimise the use of local resources, while ensuring compliance with international sustainability standards.
Key takeaways from RSB’s study
Substantial SAF potential: The study estimates that Southeast Asia’s bio-based feedstock could support the production of approximately 45.7 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2050, translating to about 12% of the total SAF volume needed to achieve net-zero aviation emissions globally. This underscores the region’s capability to become a major player in the SAF industry, contingent on the development of supportive policies and infrastructure investments.
Diverse feedstock sources: Southeast Asia is rich in bio-based feedstock, including agricultural residues, municipal waste, and certain energy crops. The most promising feedstocks identified are rice husks and rice straw, which stand out for both their abundance and sustainability. The study found that up to 75% of SAF potential in the region could be met by using post-consumer and agricultural waste, emphasising the low-risk nature of such resources.
Need for further research: The study revealed gaps in the literature for certain feedstock types, such as residues from the palm industry and crops that could be grown on degraded land. Further research into these areas could expand the range of sustainable feedstock available for SAF production, paving the way for innovative solutions and increased supply chain resilience.
Sustainability considerations: A unique aspect of the RSB’s assessment is the application of the RSB Principles & Criteria, which include social and environmental standards vital for ensuring sustainability. This comprehensive approach highlights the importance of risk management in areas such as deforestation, food security, and water use. By following these principles, the region can align SAF production with sustainable development goals, enhancing its attractiveness to international markets and investors.
Policy and investment imperatives: The findings stress that realising Southeast Asia’s SAF potential requires coordinated policy action and significant investment in infrastructure. Governments in the region are encouraged to establish supportive policy frameworks and collaborate on regional initiatives to foster knowledge-sharing and technological advancements.
A blueprint for regional and global benefits
RSB’s sustainable feedstock assessment reveals that Southeast Asia’s ability to produce SAF on a large scale holds promise for reducing global carbon emissions and offers local benefits, including economic growth and job creation. Importantly, it also presents a blueprint for stakeholders looking to support the development of sustainable fuels in other sectors, too.
From policymakers and investors to researchers and civil society, this kind of research serves as an essential guide for various stakeholders looking to understand the opportunities and challenges in scaling sustainable fuels in Southeast Asia and beyond. It sets a foundation for strategic planning that aligns with global decarbonisation goals and regional socio-economic progress, marking a crucial step toward a more sustainable future for carbon-intensive sectors.
RSB will host its flagship event, the RSB Annual Conference, on 11 December at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland.
Learn more about global feedstock availability by attending the Sustainable Aviation Futures MENA Congress