By Scout Nelson
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a biofuel made from sources like corn, sorghum, and soybeans, which can be used in aircraft and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional fuels. SAF represents the future of biofuels by bridging two major industries in Kansas: aviation and agriculture.
Agriculture is the largest economic driver in Kansas, contributing over $81 billion to the state’s economy. Kansas farmers produce abundant corn, soybeans, and grain sorghum, which can be used to create SAF. In addition, Wichita, known as the Air Capital of the World, manufactures thousands of airplanes and aircraft parts each year.
In partnership with SAFFIRE Renewables and Southwest Airlines, Kansas will soon begin construction on a facility that will process corn stover into renewable ethanol, which will then be converted into SAF.
Senator Jerry Moran has introduced the Farm to Fly Act to accelerate SAF production and development through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.
This legislation aims to expand the use of alternative fuels in aviation, create new markets for American farmers, and support rural America, the agriculture industry, and the aviation sector.
Photo Credit: vista-mipan
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Energy