UNICA at COP30 – “Challenges to foster the SAF international market”

Promoting the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) is one of the most effective pathways to decarbonize aviation. SAF can reduce up to 80% of lifecycle CO₂ emissions compared to conventional jet fuel, depending on the feedstock and production pathway. 

Produced from renewable sources such as biomass, waste oils, and agricultural residues, SAF offers a technically viable alternative compatible with existing aircraft engines and airport infrastructure. Within the UNFCCC framework, international aviation fuels (bunker fuels) are recognized as a key part of global mitigation coverage. 

The global alignment on SAF goals—under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) through the CORSIA scheme—highlights the need to integrate SAF into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and international regulatory frameworks. However, despite its potential, large-scale SAF adoption faces major economic, regulatory, and logistical challenges: 

• High production costs and limited availability of sustainable feedstocks; 

• Fragmented regulatory regimes and certification systems; 

• Price volatility and supply constraints; 

• Lack of consistent policies and incentives to ensure stable long-term investment. 

This panel will explore the barriers and pathways to building a robust international SAF market, emphasizing solutions that combine technological innovation, financial instruments, regulatory coherence, and international cooperation to make SAF a cornerstone of global aviation decarbonization.  

Speakers from International Air Transport Association (IATA), Transport for Canada, National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and Fueling Sustainability (FS)

Venue : COP30 – Blue Zone – Brazilian Sustainable Transportation Pavilion (PV-C64)