Sustainable Aviation Fuel Credits

SAF credits, or Sustainable Aviation Fuel credits, are tradable certificates that represent the environmental benefits of using sustainable aviation fuel instead of conventional jet fuel. These credits allow organisations—particularly airlines and large corporates with business travel emissions—to claim a reduction in their aviation-related carbon footprint, even if they don’t use SAF directly. SAF credits are verified by recognised standards to ensure traceability and impact.

SAF credits are generated when sustainable aviation fuel is produced and used, typically by an airline. Instead of claiming the carbon reduction themselves, the airline can issue a credit that is purchased by another party, such as a corporation looking to reduce its Scope 3 emissions from air travel. This system helps drive investment in SAF production while giving buyers a credible way to support the aviation sector’s decarbonisation.

SAF credits are crucial because aviation is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise. With limited options for electrification or alternative fuels at scale, SAF offers a drop-in solution that can immediately lower lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. Credits help stimulate demand and fund SAF supply chains, accelerating its adoption across the UK and Europe as part of broader climate commitments.

Yes, SAF credits are increasingly recognised in both UK and European frameworks. While compliance markets are still evolving, voluntary schemes like the Book & Claim model are widely used, especially among multinational firms. In the EU, SAF is being integrated into regulatory initiatives such as ReFuelEU Aviation, which will mandate SAF blending targets and could further solidify the role of SAF credits in corporate sustainability efforts.

Companies can purchase SAF credits through aviation fuel suppliers, airlines, or carbon credit platforms that offer verified SAF programmes. The process usually involves a Book & Claim system, where the buyer supports SAF use in one location while claiming the environmental benefit elsewhere. This approach enables companies with significant air travel or logistics emissions to take meaningful action in support of cleaner aviation fuel technologies.