By Scout Nelson
U.S. Senators, including Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), have recently reintroduced the Farm to Fly Act, aiming to accelerate the development and usage of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from U.S. agricultural products.
This legislation utilizes existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs to enhance SAF production, proposing a strategic integration of agriculture into renewable energy sectors.
The act is designed to clarify the eligibility of SAF within USDA Bio-Energy Programs, fostering significant growth in markets for American crops through aviation bioenergy. This includes creating a common definition for SAF to ensure consistency and maximizing the agricultural sector's contribution to renewable fuels.
Sen. Moran highlighted the legislation's dual benefits: opening new markets for farmers and increasing domestic energy production, which enhances national security. Similarly, Sen. Grassley emphasized the economic growth driven by investing in homegrown biofuels.
Sen. Duckworth mentioned the bill's potential to reduce America's carbon footprint by increasing the supply of domestically produced SAF. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act, enhancing USDA's partnership with the aviation biofuels sector.
Furthermore, the Farm to Fly Act encourages greater collaboration between the USDA and private sector stakeholders, promising more efficient advancements in biofuel technologies.
This collaborative effort is supported by various stakeholders in the aviation, agriculture, and energy sectors.
Industry support is robust, with endorsements from entities like the Kansas Corn Growers Association, which sees corn-based ethanol as a pivotal element of SAF.
The National Sorghum Producers and the Kansas Soybean Association also back the bill, recognizing its potential to significantly impact rural economies by creating new markets for crops like soybeans.
Organizations such as Airlines for America and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association commend the legislation for promoting U.S. energy independence and supporting the aviation industry's sustainability goals. They recognize the critical role of SAF in achieving net-zero emissions and bolstering the U.S. economy through enhanced agricultural and industrial activities.
The Farm to Fly Act represents a vital step toward integrating American agriculture with cutting-edge energy solutions, ensuring the nation remains a leader in sustainable aviation advancements while supporting its farming communities.
Photo Credits:vista-mipan
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Soybeans, Energy, General