Thailand is making a bold move to tackle climate change in the aviation sector by introducing its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate. This forward-thinking policy, which will require airlines to use a certain percentage of SAF in their fuel mix, positions Thailand at the forefront of global efforts to reduce carbon emissions from air travel.
The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate is designed to help curb the aviation industry’s significant contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, aviation is responsible for about 3-5% of worldwide carbon emissions. By requiring airlines to adopt SAF, Thailand is contributing to the fight against climate change while aligning itself with international sustainability goals.
Thailand’s SAF mandate is paving the way for a greener aviation future, with Bangchak Corporation leading the charge in SAF production Photo Courtesy safinvestor.com
Bangchak Corporation, a key player in Thailand’s energy sector, will be instrumental in meeting this mandate. The company is set to ramp up SAF production, providing the infrastructure and technology to ensure a smooth transition toward greener aviation practices. SAF is made from renewable resources like agricultural waste, algae, and forestry residues, and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. The beauty of SAF is that it can be used in existing aircraft and fueling systems without requiring major modifications, making the transition easier for airlines.
The push for SAF isn’t just happening in Thailand. The European Union aims to produce 10 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2030, and the United States is offering tax incentives to promote SAF production. Thailand’s SAF mandate will ensure the country remains competitive in the growing eco-friendly aviation market in Southeast Asia.
However, Thailand’s SAF mandate faces significant challenges, especially in scaling up SAF production. Currently, SAF is much more expensive than traditional jet fuel, costing 3 to 5 times more, which could make widespread adoption difficult for airlines. But, with continuous innovation in feedstocks—such as waste CO2 and municipal solid waste—experts are optimistic that SAF will become more affordable over time.
As Bangchak Corporation and other stakeholders work to ramp up SAF production, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in eco-friendly aviation, with the potential to set an example for neighboring countries. The SAF mandate is a critical part of the country’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for aviation.
