Estonia and Latvia have launched a joint project aimed at exploring the potential for producing sustainable, environmentally friendly aviation fuels in their countries. The European Commission has allocated 200,000 euros to each country to support the initiative.
According to Taivo Linnamägi, head of the aviation department at the Ministry of Climate, the project lays the groundwork for greener aviation.
“Sustainable aviation fuels can greatly reduce emissions in the aviation sector. While some eco-friendly fuels are already in use, meeting climate goals will require a substantial increase in production and the broader availability of these fuels,” Mr Linnamägi explained.
The project will include interviews with key industry stakeholders, resulting in a detailed, country-specific analysis of fuel production opportunities and technologies. It will also produce recommendations for enhancing the competitiveness of both countries in the aviation sector, offering support to policymakers in implementing these suggestions. The overarching goal is to reduce carbon emissions in aviation, thereby minimising its environmental impact.
Sustainable aviation fuels have a lower environmental impact than traditional fossil fuels. Examples include biofuels and hydrogen fuels, as well as emerging types of fuel that are not yet produced in Estonia.
The European Union has also highlighted the importance of sustainable aviation fuel. A regulation that took effect at the end of last year requires jet fuel suppliers to gradually increase the share of sustainable jet fuel supplied within the EU, starting in 2025.
The project, which is being carried out by PwC and partners, including the law firm TRINITI, will run until 30 November of next year, with funding from the European Commission.
