Biofuels to power airplanes?
A substitute of fossil fuels to power airplanes? What exactly are biofuels?
A biofuel is a type of fuel whose energy is derived from biological carbon fixation. Unlike petroleum and other fossil fuels, burning biofuels adds little carbon to the environment since most of the carbon present in the plants would already be exhausted to turn it into biofuels.
Due to factors such as oil price hikes and environmental concerns over greenhouse gases emissions from fossil fuels, biofuels are gaining increased public and scientific attention. Estimates stated that biofuels could reduce the aviation sector’s carbon footprint by up to 80 per cent! This will not only help reduce the level of harmful greenhouse gases emitted that causes damages to our Earth, it will also help some airlines save on the EU carbon taxes.
So with such great benefits, why are airlines deterred to make use of biofuels?
Airlines commented that supplies are way too costly for usage and are often too limited. When costs are high, profits get eroded and the method becomes non-viable. Airlines will need the support of government to lower the cost of biofuels before this method becomes feasible and large volumes of biofuels can be brought in.
The 5th edition of Aviation Outlook China 2012 is less than a month away. We are excited to see you this July in Shanghai!
