South Korea's government said on Friday it will require all international flights from domestic airports to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) starting in 2027, as part of efforts to reduce the aviation industry's carbon emissions. South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said it will require a minimum mixing ratio of 1% for outbound flights by 2027, and then gradually increase it to 3-5% in 2030 and 7-10% in 2035.
Sustainable aviation fuel is made from a variety of materials, such as used cooking oil, waste and renewable energy. It can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to regular aviation fuel.
Officials said the policy will help create demand for SAF in South Korea and help local energy and chemical companies develop such products and supply networks.
To help airlines manage related costs, the Korean government will provide subsidies, tax incentives and other support, and will establish a system to certify the quality of SAF and monitor prices so that airlines can make a smoother transition.
The South Korean government has also launched an industry alliance to bring together airlines, refiners and research institutions, which will serve as a platform to expand SAF production.