Unlocking the Potential of Used Cooking Oil for Greener Skies
The aviation industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability, and India is emerging as a key player in this global movement. With a massive supply of used cooking oil (UCO) and strong government backing, the country stands at the forefront of a promising new market: sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). As the industry seeks viable alternatives to fossil fuels, India’s 3.2 million metric tons of UCO provide a compelling opportunity for innovation, investment, and long-term economic and environmental benefits.
A Market on the Rise
The global SAF market is projected to reach $16.8 billion by 2030, growing at a rapid rate of 47.7% annually. This surge is driven by mounting pressure on airlines to cut greenhouse gas emissions and meet net-zero targets. However, the high cost of SAF compared to traditional jet fuel remains a challenge. India’s abundant UCO supply, combined with its evolving regulatory landscape, positions the country to become not only self-sufficient in SAF production but also a major exporter.
The Indian government has set ambitious targets, aiming for a 1% SAF blend by 2027 and increasing to 2% by 2028. By 2030, the country could have enough feedstock to produce between 19 and 24 million metric tons of SAF annually, far exceeding the domestic demand of 8 to 10 million metric tons. This would allow India to play a leading role in the global SAF market, potentially surpassing major producers like China.
Turning Waste into Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Advanced refining processes, such as hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA), make the conversion of UCO into SAF possible. This method removes impurities and transforms waste oils into high-quality aviation fuel that meets stringent industry standards. By utilizing UCO as a feedstock, the industry promotes circular economy principles, reducing landfill waste, mitigating pollution, and lowering overall emissions.
In comparison to traditional jet fuels, SAF can cut lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%. This reduction is crucial given that long-haul flights—where alternative solutions like hydrogen or electric propulsion are currently unviable—account for the majority of aviation emissions.
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Realizing India’s SAF potential requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Collaboration among government agencies, airlines, biofuel producers, waste management companies, and technology providers is essential to establish a robust UCO-to-SAF supply chain. The Indian government is already facilitating this transition through initiatives such as the “Repurpose Used Cooking Oil” (RUCO) program, which helps trace and collect UCO for biofuel production.
Public-private partnerships will be key in overcoming logistical challenges, ensuring feedstock consistency, and scaling up production. Aerospace leaders, with their deep expertise in fuel technology and regulatory compliance, are well-positioned to drive this transformation.
Growing Industry Momentum
Several industry players have already taken decisive steps toward integrating SAF into their operations. Airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France-KLM have successfully operated flights powered by UCO-based SAF. In India, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is investing ₹1,400 crore to establish SAF units, aligning with the national goal of increasing biofuel adoption.
On the global front, companies like Neste and World Energy are expanding their production capacity for UCO-based SAF, further validating the market’s growth trajectory.
Seizing the $3 Billion Opportunity
Estimations suggest that India’s UCO market could be worth between $922 million to $3.1 billion, depending on collection and processing efficiency. This potential underscores the urgency for India to accelerate investments in refining technology, infrastructure, and policy incentives to maximize returns.
By prioritizing SAF production, India can unlock economic opportunities while significantly reducing its aviation sector’s carbon footprint. The shift towards greener aviation is no longer a distant goal—it is a market reality in the making.
Conclusion
India is uniquely positioned to lead the charge in SAF production, capitalizing on its vast UCO resources and proactive policy framework. With strategic investments, collaboration, and innovation, the country can create a resilient SAF ecosystem that benefits both the economy and the environment.
As aviation sustainability becomes a global priority, early adopters stand to gain the most. The time to act is now, and India’s SAF journey is just beginning.