In this episode, we speak with Anna Stratton, Associate Director, Aviation at ClimateWorks Foundation, a global platform for philanthropy that has granted over $2 billion to climate solutions across 50 countries. 

Stratton shares insights into how philanthropic funding can drive aviation’s transition to net zero while ensuring emerging markets aren’t left behind. She discusses:

1. The crucial role of philanthropy in advancing sustainable aviation solutions through research, analysis, and policy development
2. Why Europe’s ReFuelEU policy sets a strong standard for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate with its long-term outlook to 2050, specific e-fuel requirements, and robust sustainability safeguards
3. The potential of hydrogen for short and medium-haul flights, and the innovative approach of collaborating with shipping sector for infrastructure solutions
4. Why contrail mitigation represents an exciting near-term opportunity for emissions reduction, and the importance of monitoring and verification
5. The need to reimagine aviation growth, particularly focusing on high-flying groups like corporate travelers

Stratton emphasises that while industry focuses heavily on SAF, a comprehensive vision for net-zero aviation must include multiple solutions. She also outlines how philanthropy can strategically support civil society in driving aviation’s sustainable transformation, highlighting the need for both technological innovation and behavioural change.

Please note: This interview was recorded in September 2024. ClimateWorks has since updated its 2024 transportation grants, with $5.5M allocated to aviation, $72.3M to road transportation, and $13.3M to maritime shipping, bringing the total to $91.1M. The updated data is available on their website.

If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with  Sally Davey, CEO of Travalyst, who shares insights about transforming the travel industry through collaborative data initiatives. Check it out here. 

Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.

Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.

Links & More:

ClimateWorks Foundation

Transportation - ClimateWorks Foundation

Less is more: How reducing demand for unnecessary business flights can help curb aviation emissions - ClimateWorks Foundation

Decarbonising aviation gains momentum with new net-zero goal - ClimateWorks Foundation