Boeing unveils data tool for net-zero emissions aim. Boeing Co (BA.N) launched a data modeling tool to help airlines and policymakers find the fastest, most cost-effective way to reduce aviation emissions to zero by 2050.
Cascade lets users adjust variables like sustainable fuels or electric propulsion, the replacement of older aircraft, operational improvements, and other advanced technologies to see how they might reduce carbon emissions over time.
Boeing presented a test version of Cascade in July 2022. The company stated the algorithm had been refined over the past year to project data to 2050 instead of just a single point in time.
On Wednesday, Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Raymond told airline and government executives that a “collection” of technology or process changes would reduce emissions.
However, Raymond noted that airlines can immediately use sustainable aviation fuel, while electric or hydrogen-powered aircraft may not be mature enough to reduce emissions before 2050 meaningfully.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg discussed sustainable aviation fuel investments with Canada, the U.K., and Singapore at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. Cascade launched days afterward.
Despite airline opposition, Reuters reported Tuesday that E.U. governments would agree on airport SAF targets.
SAF, made from waste feedstocks like frying oil, is expensive and scarce, accounting for less than 0.1% of major U.S. airlines’ jet fuel in 2022, according to the Government Accountability Office.
Raymond said, “We intend to scale SAF and help it scale by examining what has to change in an airplane to be 100% compatible with (SAF). “We must advocate for policies that help the industry scale up (production).”
Boeing bought 5.6 million gallons of Nestle (NESTE.HE) SAF in February 2023.
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