Southeast Asia Poised to Become a Major Force in SAF Development, Boeing Says

A recent report by the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), supported by Boeing, reveals that Southeast Asia has the potential to supply around 12% of the global demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) needed to meet the aviation industry's net-zero emissions goal by 2050. The assessment, covering 11 countries in Southeast Asia, estimates that the region's bio-based feedstock could generate approximately 45.7 million metric tons of SAF annually by 2050.

Significantly, the report indicates that about 75% of the region’s SAF feedstock could be derived from postconsumer and agricultural waste, including materials such as cassava, sugarcane, and municipal solid waste. This highlights Southeast Asia's rich resources and potential in supporting SAF production.

Sharmine Tan, Boeing’s regional sustainability lead for Southeast Asia, emphasized the importance of these findings: “This research confirms Southeast Asia's diverse feedstock availability and its substantial role in meeting global SAF needs. By collaborating on sustainability policies and investing in infrastructure, regional governments and industries can enhance local SAF production. This provides an exciting opportunity for Southeast Asia to contribute to a more sustainable aviation future while simultaneously protecting its environment and stimulating economic growth.”

The report also notes that unblended, or “neat,” SAF—completely free of fossil fuels—has the highest potential for reducing aviation carbon emissions. It can cut lifecycle emissions by up to 84% over the next 30 years. Despite these benefits, SAF represented only 0.2% of global commercial fuel use in 2023.

Arianna Baldo, RSB’s programme director, added, “Our study not only evaluates the volume of feedstocks available in Southeast Asia but also assesses their environmental and social sustainability, including impacts on deforestation, water resources, and food security. These insights are crucial for directing future SAF feedstock supply and exploring additional agricultural and industrial waste materials.”

Overall, the findings underscore Southeast Asia's crucial role in the future of SAF and its potential to drive significant advancements in sustainable aviation practices.

RSB is committed to making the shift towards a biocircular economy both environmentally sustainable and socially equitable. Collaborating with its membership community, RSB has established a comprehensive and credible sustainability framework, known as the RSB Principles & Criteria. This framework outlines how to ensure that the global transition is based on a holistic approach to sustainability, extending beyond mere decarbonization to promote positive social and environmental outcomes. RSB’s methodology equips decision-makers in brands, industries, policy-making, and other areas to achieve beneficial impacts for both people and the planet.