The aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint as global concerns about climate change increase. With air journey contributing a significant part of the global greenhouse gas emissions, finding sustainable solutions has become a top priority for both airlines, manufacturers and regulators.
The rise of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is seen as a promising development. However, SAF is currently responsible for just 0.5 percent of global fuel consumption in aviation, and the scale of production presents a major challenge. While SAF remains a critical component to evade the air, the industry should look outside the fuel alone.
Recent investments, such as the FAA’s US $ 291 million commitment to SAF and low-emission technologies, indicate the hope of the future of the industry. However, SAF is still far below the needs of the industry.
“Safs based on waste have significant obstacles. The availability of feed is limited, and there is competition for resources. The processing of this fuel is also complicated and expensive, ”said Nico den Ouden, chief innovation officer at Gen Phoenix.
“We believe that sustainability must be addressed from various angles. While Saf’s addresses fuel emissions, sustainable practices must extend beyond fuel sources.
“Our focus is on reducing the weight of the aircraft with innovative recycled seating material, which is up to 45 percent lighter than traditional options. This leads to fuel saving and reduced environmental impact. “
From process to placement
As the aviation sector continues to develop, the key to reducing its carbon footprint in balancing three factors: price, performance and planet.
“For any solution to have a significant impact, it must be economically viable, meet performance and safety standards and deliver substantial environmental benefits. SAF offers immediate reduction of emissions, but its scalability and costs remain challenging, ”Den Ouden explained.
‘Meanwhile, advanced materials such as ours, and emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft offer long-term potential. In the end, the solutions that perform in all three areas will form the future of sustainable aviation. “
Gen Phoenix’s recycled leather fiber boasts an 83 percent lower carbon footprint than traditional leather.
By combining materials such as Gen Phoneix’s with SAF and other clean technologies, airlines can significantly improve their sustainability.
“Our production process has up to 86 percent lower carbon footprint than traditional learning production, and we recycle 95 percent of the water we use through an internal recycling plant. In addition, we keep our operations with 100 percent renewable electricity coming from wind energy, ”Den Ouden explained.
“The production of SAF is energy-intensive and competitive. Electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft offer alternatives, but each has its own challenges, such as energy storage and infrastructure development. Therefore, we believe that material innovation is key. “
Proof of concept
One notable collaboration is with Doy design, where Gen Phoenix provided their low-carbon leather for Heart Aerospace’s ES-30 hybrid electric aircraft.
“This partnership is a good example of how our recycled materials can support new, sustainable aviation technologies. We are proud to contribute to projects that push the industry to a more sustainable future, ”Den Ouden highlighted.
‘We work with airlines, manufacturers and regulatory bodies to scale our solutions and bring about real change. The industry is rapidly developing, and we are committed to ensuring that our material not only meets the current standards, but also exceeds the future sustainability expectations. “
Circular process
The focus on materials is not just about reducing weight or fuel consumption; It is about adopting the principles of the circular economy.
“Our latest innovation, Helios, is a closed loop system that transforms the seat seat cover into new, fully recyclable materials. For a typical airline with 180 aircraft, it can occur more than three tonnes of landfill per year, ”Den Ouden set out.
Gen Phoenix’s efforts pay well. More than 250 airlines are now using their recycled learning, and partners’ feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
“Aviation material must meet strict safety, durability and regulatory requirements. Prove that recycled materials can meet or even exceed these standards is a strict process. We work closely with our partners to ensure that our material meets the highest standards, and we continue to invest in research and development to push the boundaries of what recycled materials can reach, ‘Den Ouden set out.
“But just as important, it appreciates the environmental benefits. The use of our recycled learning helps airlines to achieve their sustainability goals by reducing waste and lowering emissions. “
