Sustainability In The Air

In this episode, we talk to Jamila Yamani, Director of Climate & Energy at Salesforce, who shares fascinating insights into the company’s commitment to sustainability, and how the company is taking a unique approach to advancing sustainable aviation as a non-airline entity.Yamani discusses why sustainability matters to Salesforce, emphasising that it’s not just about risk mitigation but also about leveraging their platform to accelerate the global transition to net zero. She highlights Salesforce’s role in sponsoring the Sustainable Aviation Challenge, launched by UpLink in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the First Movers Coalition, which aims to identify and elevate promising sustainable aviation technologies globally.As part of the First Movers Coalition, Salesforce has committed to buying SAF certificates equal to 5% of their air travel emissions. Yamani shares the challenges of navigating SAF certificates and off-takes as an end buyer, and how Salesforce has made initial purchases with United and JetBlue to start figuring out the complexities.To address the risks of greenwashing, Salesforce emphasises the importance of considering the full lifecycle impacts of SAF, especially fuels from biological resources. Yamani stresses the need for a diverse portfolio of SAF solutions and the critical role of sustainable feedstock sourcing.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI, who discusses the RMI’s multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation. 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:Environmental Sustainability - Salesforce Sustainable Aviation Challenge - UpLink Salesforce and JetBlue build on partnership to accelerate their shared journey toward sustainable air travel - Salesforce A guide to how Salesforce sustainability efforts support COP28 objectives - Salesforce Why RMI’s multi-pronged approach to decarbonising aviation includes SAF & contrails 

In this episode, we talk to Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI. Founded in 1982 as Rocky Mountain Institute, RMI is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit that seeks to transform the global energy system to ensure a clean, zero-carbon future.   Chen discusses RMI's multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation, which includes stimulating demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and addressing aviation's non-CO2 emissions – specifically, the environmental impacts of contrails. He also touches upon RMI's broader mission concerning the decarbonisation of heavy industry and transportation sectors.Central to the conversation is the pivotal role of SAF in reducing aviation's carbon footprint. Chen discusses how RMI, through initiatives like the Sustainable Aviation Buyers Alliance (SABA), is working to overcome the challenges posed by the current "green premium" associated with SAF. This involves mobilising corporate demand and leveraging technologies such as blockchain for the traceability of SAF certificates, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in SAF transactions.Furthermore, Chen highlights the significant investments required to scale SAF production and the necessity of collaborative efforts across the aviation value chain for sustainable growth. He reflects on his experiences at Heathrow Airport, emphasising the critical role airports play in SAF adoption and the need for industry-wide collaboration.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Elena Schmidt, Executive Director of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), about the journey of RSB in fostering sustainability, especially in the aviation and travel industries. 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:Decarbonizing Aviation - RMI SABA announces collective purchase of SAF certificates - Biofuels International MagazineClean Energy 101: Book and Claim - RMIContrail Mitigation: A Milestone Year for Advancing Industry Understanding and Experience - RMIFlight100: Virgin Atlantic and RMI test new ways to reduce aviation’s climate impact - Virgin How the RSB is nudging aviation towards a bio-circular economy - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Sangita Sharma, Director of Delta Air Lines’ Sustainable Skies Lab, who shares how the lab is fostering innovation and accelerating a sustainable future for air travel.The Sustainable Skies Lab aims to advance research, design and testing for transformative sustainable innovations, for both near-term and long-term environmental goals. The lab seeks to merge Delta’s extensive operational knowledge with cutting-edge innovations across the aviation industry, creating a collaborative environment for testing and scaling new technologies. An example of the lab’s efforts is ongoing testing of sustainable taxiing technologies, such as super tugs, that can potentially offer significant fuel savings, by allowing aircraft to taxi without using the main engines.Sharma discusses Delta’s commitment to advancing sustainability beyond its own operations, aiming to drive broader industry progress. She highlights the pivotal role of employee engagement and knowledge exchange; Delta’s close collaboration with SkyTeam partners; and the lab’s disciplined framework for applied innovation in driving the industry towards net zero 2050 goals.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Delta Air Lines’ Chief Sustainability Officer, Amelia DeLuca who shares the airline’s collaborative vision for sustainability. 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:Delta to launch innovation lab to accelerate the more sustainable future of flight - Delta Air LinesDelta’s sustainability push is powered by a surprising customer insight - SimpliFlying  Sustainability - Delta Air Lines Delta Sustainability Chief discusses cutting airline’s footprint and shift away from offsets - WSJ Delta recognized for innovation in Sustainable Flight Challenge - Aviation Source News

In this episode, we talk to Nicholas Flanders, Co-Founder and CEO of carbon transformation company, Twelve, who highlights the pivotal role of clean technology in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in hard-to-decarbonise sectors like aviation.The versatility of Twelve’s technology is underscored by their ability to transform CO2 into a wide range of products, from sunglasses and washing detergents to car parts. Twelve’s innovative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), called E-Jet®, made from CO2 and water, has up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions than conventional fuel. Flanders also shares E-jet’s journey from its initial testing with the US Air Force to securing commercial partnerships with Alaska Airlines, Microsoft and Shopify.With a foundational vision of cost competitiveness, Twelve aims to revolutionise the industry and offer customers the lowest possible cost pathway to reduce emissions. Flanders also emphasises the strategic importance of green electricity and multi-year offtake agreements for scaling SAF production.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with  Dave Kettner, President and General Counsel at Virent, who shares the company’s innovative contributions in the field of renewable fuels and chemicals. 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:E-Jet fuel - Twelve Twelve Launches First Commercial-Scale SAF Production Facility - Carbon Herald Alaska Airlines looks to ‘carbon transformation’ company Twelve for SAF supply - Flight Global  Etihad Airways plans to use sustainable fuel made from CO2 - Sustainability MagazineAlaska Airlines, Microsoft and Twelve partner to advance new form of sustainable aviation fuel - Alaska Airlines 

In this episode, we talk to Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President Sustainability & Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), on the integration of sustainability and economics within the aviation sector, highlighting the pivotal role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the challenges of balancing growth with environmental stewardship. Thomsen emphasises the interconnectedness of economic considerations and environmental sustainability, advocating for a systemic approach that extends beyond aviation to include energy producers, policymakers, and financial institutions.The conversation further delves into the nuances of SAF production, underscoring the importance of diversifying and scaling technological pathways for SAF. Addressing criticisms of the aviation industry’s sustainability efforts, Thomsen highlights the industry’s proactive initiatives, positioning aviation as an early mover towards decarbonisation.She also suggests that airlines explore vertical integration and alternative revenue streams to enhance both sustainability and economic resilience, reflecting on the industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for diversified business models to withstand future challenges.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Haldane Dodd, Executive Director at Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), about how the non-profit is assisting the aviation industry in its net-zero by 2050 journey. 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:Our Commitment to Fly Net Zero by 2050 - IATA Developing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) - IATA CORSIA explained SAF Offtake Agreements - ICAO  IATA - Strengthened Global Framework for Accelerating Aviation’s DecarbonizationIATA - Net Zero Roadmaps The non-profit working behind the scenes to get aviation to net zero by 2050 - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Senator Andy Billig, Senate Majority Leader at Washington State Senate, on how he has spearheaded efforts to integrate environmental stewardship with legislative action in Washington State.Billig’s journey in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) began in 2012, leading to pivotal legislation like Senate Bill 5447, which incentivises SAF production to complement Washington’s aerospace and technological sectors. The bill, developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders and aimed at boosting local SAF production, has been well-received for its flexibility and environmental focus. Despite challenges in educating legislators and addressing misconceptions about SAF versus other green technologies, the bill passed with near-unanimous support.Post-passage, significant strides have been made, including SkyNRG’s plant establishment and BP’s exploration of a SAF production facility, marking progress in Washington State’s SAF ecosystem. Billig addresses concerns about the bill’s scope and the need for a balanced, data-informed approach to SAF development, emphasising the role of technology-neutral legislation and the importance of market dynamics in resource allocation. He highlights the need for continued education, collaboration, and ensuring the sustainability of feedstocks, reflecting on the complexities of advancing SAF within the broader context of environmental and economic sustainability.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Dr Susanne Becken, Professor of Sustainable Tourism at Griffith University, Australia, who discusses various aspects of sustainable travel and its relationship with climate change. 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:Biography - Sen. Andy Billig New $800M sustainable aviation fuel plant planned for Washington state - The Seattle Times BP analyses SAF production at its Cherry Point refinery - The Daily DigestTwelve announces plans to scale production of SAF in Washington State - Biofuels International Magazine Billig bill to incentivize clean jet fuel, spur job creation clears Senate - Sen. Andy Billig How to rethink tourism and aviation for a greener future - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Elena Schmidt, Executive Director of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB).RSB is a global, multi-stakeholder independent organisation that drives the development of a new world bio-economy through sustainability solutions, certification, and collaborative partnerships.Schmidt acknowledges the difficulties in decarbonising aviation, given the reliance on fossil fuels and the current limitations of alternatives like hydrogen or electric planes. RSB views the ‘book and claim’ system for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) as an effective solution. In 2021, RSB launched a SAF book and claim pilot with Air bp to enable certified SAF claims from Microsoft and United Airlines. The RSB Book & Claim System, aims to develop a credible and effective book and claim mechanism to expand the outreach of SAF and accelerate decarbonisation. If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Haldane Dodd, Executive Director at Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), who shares how the non-profit is assisting the aviation’s net-zero journey. 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:Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials Association - RSBRSB book and claim programme - RSB Microsoft, United Airlines and SABA join RSB and Air bp pilot for first-ever SAF book and claim transaction - GreenAir NewsBoeing and RSB expand SAF study to South East Asia - Airport Technology The non-profit working behind the scenes to get aviation to net zero by 2050 - SimpliFlying 

In this episode, we talk to Jonathon Counsell, Group Head of Sustainability at International Airlines Group (IAG).IAG is the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, Aer Lingus, LEVEL, IAG Loyalty and IAG Cargo. The group plays a critical role in setting the sustainability strategy and targets for its subsidiary airlines, and collaborates with governments and investors to realise these goals.Counsell emphasises the importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in decarbonising aviation and discusses IAG’s SAF strategy. For example, in 2021, IAG became the first European airline group to commit to a target of 10% SAF for all fuel needs by 2030. Counsell also highlights the complexities involved in the transition towards SAF, the disparity in global SAF policies – especially between the US and the EU – and the critical role of investors in this transition. He also discusses the various generations of SAF, and the exploration of new technologies to achieve sustainability goals in the airline industry. If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, who discusses the airline’s commitment to net zero, and the overarching BA Better World sustainability strategy. 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:International Airlines Group (IAG)Sustainability strategy - IAG IAG looks to secure international support to power 10% of its flights with SAF by 2030 - GreenAir British Airways’ route to sustainability with BA Better World - SimpliFlying IAG and Microsoft sign major SAF deal - Airport Technology 

In this episode, we talk to Amy Hebert, Chair of the Board and CEO at Arcadia eFuels, who discusses the rapidly growing field of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with a focus on e-fuels. eFuels are produced with electricity from renewable sources, water and CO2 and are a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Hebert discusses her entry into the field, driven by the untapped potential for carbon-neutral fuels despite existing technologies like Gas to Liquids and green hydrogen electrolysers. Arcadia, her company, aims for rapid market entry and large-scale e-fuel production, targeting significant reductions in CO2 emissions. She highlights challenges in securing long-term offtake agreements and the evolving understanding of e-fuels in the market. Hebert also acknowledges the current resource intensity of e-fuels and the high costs of SAF production, emphasising the need for smaller-scale projects and technological advancements. She shares that Arcadia has not yet started producing SAF, with production expected to begin around late 2026 or early 2027. The conversation covers the importance of securing long-term commitments for green hydrogen, engaging with potential customers, and exploring innovative financing solutions. Amy's vision is to enable airlines to use 100% eSAF, facilitating responsible and cost-effective air travel.If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Gene Gebolys, President and CEO at World Energy, the world’s first producer of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that has been in the business of renewable fuels for over 25 years. 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:Arcadia eFuels eFuels: sustainable in two ways Arcadia eFuels’ SAF plant to use Plug Power’s electrolyser - Hydrocarbon EngineeringHitachi Energy selected as consulting partner for world’s first commercial eFuels facilityKGAL invests in Arcadia eFuels’ eSAF project in Denmark - Renewables NowArcadia eFuels selects Topsoe and Sasol G2L technology for the first commercial eFuels-for-aviation plant in Denmark - Green Car CongressFirst commercial eFuels-for-aviation plant in Denmark on schedule for 2026 - Biofuels International Magazine How World Energy is shaping the future of sustainable aviation fuel - SimpliFlying 

Welcome to the holiday edition of Sustainability in the Air, the world's #1 podcast on sustainable aviation. Over the past couple of weeks, we have brought to you some of the finest conversations from our archives with added context based on the latest updates from the companies featured.Following our first holiday special with Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines and second with Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer, we bring to you our third and final holiday special: a fascinating conversation with John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global.Since our episode with Red Sea Global—recorded about a year ago—they’ve made a number of major announcements that are worth noting. Funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Red Sea Global is spearheading a new model of eco-tourism on the west coast of Saudia Arabia with a self-imposed ecological ceiling. Their portfolio includes two regenerative tourism destinations – the Red Sea and Amaala.Embracing a sustainable model, Red Sea Global has committed to 100% renewable energy, primarily solar, making it the world's largest renewable-powered tourism destination. To preserve the environment, the Red Sea Airport is designed to handle a limited number of passengers, aligning with the project's ecological ceiling. Pagano highlights the importance of transparency in their sustainability journey, publishing detailed reports and data to ensure accountability and avoid greenwashing. If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversation we had with Dr Susanne Becken from Griffith University, Australia, who discusses various aspects of sustainable travel and its relationship with climate change. 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:Red Sea Global announces commitment to coral at Cop28 - Blooloop How Red Sea Global’s ambitious eco-tourism model could save the planet - SimpliFlyingSaudia Marks Historic Flight to Saudi Arabia's New Red Sea International Airport - Business Traveler USARed Sea Global nursery brings life to the desert with 5m plants cultivated in just 3 years - Arab News Red Sea Global announces first partners for carbon-neutral, smart mobility network at The Red Sea - Red Sea Global How to rethink tourism and aviation for a greener future - SimpliFlying