Sustainability In The Air
By: SimpliFlying
Language: en-gb
Categories: Leisure, Aviation, Society, Culture, Places, Travel, Business
Travel makes the world a smaller and better place. Aviation has bounced back. However, as we experience climate change, we worry about our environmental impact. Sustainability in The Air, the world’s first podcast dedicated to sustainable aviation. Every week, Shashank Nigam, the CEO of SimpliFlying, talks to Airline, airport, travel and technology executives to help make sense of the Wild-West scenario. Our mission is to show the many paths to net zero, for an industry that is one of the hardest to decarbonize. Whether you're a frequent flier, an airline Executive or just love traveling, if you care about su...
Episodes
From problem to solution: How sargassum seaweed could power sustainable aviation
Oct 23, 2025In this episode, we speak with Dr. Mar Fernández-Méndez, founder of MacroCarbon and professor at the University of Bremen, about her journey from Arctic ice researcher to seaweed entrepreneur.
Dr. Fernández shares how she's turning pelagic sargassum into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) while creating a carbon-negative process that enhances marine biodiversity.
Dr. Fernández discusses:
How Sargassum differs from other algae approaches, avoiding the pitfalls that have plagued microalgae biofuel attempts for decades.MacroCarbon's integ... Duration: 00:41:11How Vancouver International Airport is racing to net zero by 2030
Oct 16, 2025In this episode, we speak with Tamara Vrooman, CEO of Vancouver International Airport (YVR), who shares how the airport has committed to achieving net zero by 2030, and the detailed roadmap they’ve developed to get there.
Vrooman discusses:
YVR’s accelerated net zero timeline: How they moved from a 2040 target to 2030 by creating a detailed, measurable roadmap with component parts that track progress.Four pathways to net zero: Capital build improvements (including Canada’s largest geo-exchange system with over 800 wells), conservation initiatives, sustainable fuels adoption, and co... Duration: 00:53:25How Syzygy Plasmonics is turning biogas into cost-competitive sustainable aviation fuel
Oct 02, 2025In this episode, we speak with Trevor Best, Co-founder and CEO of Syzygy Plasmonics, who shares how his company’s proprietary photocatalytic technology converts waste biogas into sustainable aviation fuel, and has the potential to reach fossil jet fuel parity.
Best discusses:
NovaSAF’s unique value proposition: converting biogas from landfills, dairy farms, and wastewater treatment plants into SAF, simultaneously addressing methane emissions whilst decarbonising aviation transport.The technology’s competitive advantage: using light instead of heat which enables the use of raw... Duration: 00:54:59How two young women are revolutionising direct air capture with supercapacitor technology
Sep 25, 2025In this episode, we speak with Silvia Pugliese and Monica Larrazabal, co-founders of Norma and the only all-female founding team among the c.150 direct air capture startups operating today. They share how their breakthrough supercapacitor approach could drastically slash the energy requirements of carbon capture.
Pugliese and Larrazabal discuss:
How they discovered a way to "cheat" on energy requirements by combining supercapacitor energy storage technology with CO2 capture, creating a hybrid device that recycles energy through each capture cycle.<... Duration: 00:49:44How OMV is pioneering Europe's sustainable aviation fuel transition
Sep 18, 2025In this episode, we speak with Nina Marczell, Senior Vice President of Industrial Sales & Marketing for Fuels & Feedstock at OMV, who shares how the integrated energy company is leading sustainable aviation fuel development from early production to commercial scale across Europe.
Marczell discusses:
OMV's early-mover advantage, launching SAF production at their Austrian refinery in 2022 – well ahead of EU mandates – starting with 2,000 tonnes through co-processing and scaling to 4,000 tonnes.Europe's first major standalone SAF facility in Romania, featuring 250,000 tonnes annual capacity for SAF... Duration: 00:39:22How ZeroAvia is leading aviation’s transition to hydrogen-electric propulsion
Sep 04, 2025In this episode, we speak with Val Miftakhov, CEO and founder of ZeroAvia, who shares how the clean propulsion systems company is championing hydrogen-electric engines that could transform commercial aviation.
Miftakhov discusses:
ZeroAvia’s vertical integration strategy for developing in-house fuel cells, power electronics, and motors.The company’s global expansion with Centres of Excellence in Seattle for electric propulsion systems, Kemble for aircraft integration, and the newly announced Glasgow facility for hydrogen fuel cells.Major commercial traction with 3,000 engines ordered worth $10 billion and another 5,000 in the pipeline, representing up to 8% of the global commercial engine mark... Duration: 00:59:06Why Loganair believes regional airlines will lead aviation's sustainable future
Aug 21, 2025In this episode, we speak with Luke Farajallah, CEO of Loganair, UK's largest regional airline that operates the world's shortest commercial flight and the only airline globally that lands commercially on a beach.
Farajallah discusses:
Loganair's unique "fishing in a big pond" approach to sustainable aviation, investing simultaneously in SAF, hybrid-electric aircraft with Heart Aerospace, and hydrogen propulsion with ZeroAvia rather than betting on a single technology.Why regional airlines are better positioned than major carriers to pioneer sustainable aviation, given... Duration: 00:51:13How Electra aims to bring sustainable air travel to communities everywhere
Aug 07, 2025In this episode, we speak with Marc Allen, CEO of Electra.aero, who shares how the hybrid-electric aircraft company is using its patented blown-lift technology to make regional air travel more accessible.
Electra is one of the visionary companies featured in our new book Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two.
You can learn more about the book and order a copy here.
Allen discusses:
Electra’s blown-lift tec... Duration: 00:40:06Why Twelve believes power-to-liquids will revolutionise sustainable aviation fuel production
Jul 24, 2025In this episode, we speak with Etosha Cave, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of Twelve, who shares how the carbon transformation company harnesses carbon dioxide from industrial waste streams to produce efuels.
Twelve is one of the visionary companies featured in our new book Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two. You can learn more about the book and order a copy here.
Cave discusses:
Twelve’s carbon transformation technology that mimics pho... Duration: 00:33:42Why IAG believes sustainable aviation requires both collaboration and competition
Jul 10, 2025In this episode, we speak with Aaron Robinson, Vice President of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at the International Airlines Group (IAG), which has become the top airline globally for SAF use.
IAG is one of the visionary companies featured in our new book Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two. You can learn more about the book and order a copy here.
Robinson discusses:
How IAG leveraged European incentives, Heathrow Airport programmes... Duration: 00:50:25How the GBTA aims to align corporate travel demand with aviation sustainability goals
Jun 26, 2025In this episode, we speak with Suzanne Neufang, CEO of the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), who shares how the world’s leading business travel association is transforming corporate travel to accelerate aviation decarbonisation through industry collaboration.
Neufang discusses:
How sustainability priorities amongst travel managers more than doubled from 8% in 2023 to 19% in 2024, though the industry baseline remains at just 1.3 out of 5 on GBTA's sustainability maturity scale.Why sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is the most promising decarbonisation pathway for aviation today, and ho... Duration: 00:46:52How Heart Aerospace is rewriting the rules of new aircraft development
Jun 12, 2025In this episode, we speak with Anders Forslund, Co-founder and CEO of Heart Aerospace, who shares the radical transformation his electric aircraft company has undergone in the past year — relocating from Sweden to Los Angeles and fundamentally changing how aerospace companies operate in the 21st century.
Forslund discusses:
Why Heart moved its operations to the US despite strong European roots, driven by the need to access customers, suppliers, and investors in the world’s largest aerospace market.How the industry’s talent... Duration: 00:39:56Why JetZero believes blended wing body aircraft are essential for net-zero aviation
May 29, 2025In this episode, we speak with Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero, which is developing the world's first commercial blended wing body (BWB) aircraft that promises to revolutionise aviation efficiency and passenger experience.
JetZero is one of the visionary companies featured in our new book Sustainability in the Air: Volume Two. You can learn more about the book and order a copy here.
O'Leary discusses:
JetZero's mission to bring the... Duration: 00:52:24How Edmonton International Airport is becoming a “sustainability engine” for Canada
May 15, 2025In this episode, we speak with Marion N Chivot-Legris, Director of ESG & Sustainability Strategy at Edmonton International Airport (YEG), who shares how the Canadian airport is leveraging its unique position to drive sustainability innovation across the region.
Chivot-Legris discusses:
YEG’s transformation into a “sustainability engine” for the entire region, building an integrated ecosystem that brings together clean energy companies, logistics, agri-food technologies, and education beyond traditional aviation operations.The airport’s leadership in hydrogen development, leveraging Alberta’s position as Canada’s h... Duration: 00:48:20Charting the next phase of sustainable aviation: Sustainability in the Air, Vol. II
May 01, 2025In this special episode, SimpliFlying’s CEO Shashank Nigam and Head of Sustainability Dirk Singer sit down with senior leaders from three companies featured in their upcoming book, Sustainability in the Air, Vol. II.
Joining the conversation are Jonathon Counsell (Group Head of Sustainability, IAG), Diana Birkett Rakow (SVP of Public Affairs and Sustainability, Alaska Airlines), and Ashwin Jadhav (VP of Business Development, Twelve). Together, they exp...
Duration: 00:50:23How KLM is working towards a zero-emission future in aviation
Apr 24, 2025In this episode, we speak with Jolanda Stevens, Program Manager for Zero Emission Aviation at KLM, who shares how the airline is preparing for a more sustainable future of aviation through innovative technologies and strategic investment in emerging solutions.
Stevens discusses:
KLM’s unique approach to innovation with a dedicated team focused on the “disruptive” aviation technology, working on future solutions like electric and hydrogen aircraft whilst maintaining their core flight operations.How different zero-emission technologies will serve specific segments of KLM’s... Duration: 00:40:18How a pilot-turned-CEO transformed air travel in the Baltics
Apr 17, 2025In this episode, we speak with Martin Gauss, former CEO of airBaltic, who transformed the Latvian flag carrier into one of Europe’s most innovative airlines while connecting the entire Baltic region.
Gauss discusses:
The benefits of operating a single-fleet airline with the highly efficient Airbus A220-300, resulting in 30% lower fuel consumption than older generation aircraft and contributing to airBaltic's path to carbon neutrality by 2050.airBaltic’s innovative dual business model that combines scheduled operations with wet lease services for major carriers like Lufthansa Group, creating flexibility and fina... Duration: 00:39:46How Expliseat helps airlines cut carbon without compromising on comfort
Apr 10, 2025In this episode, we speak with Amaury Barberot, CEO of Expliseat, about how the company's innovative lightweight seating technology is delivering immediate sustainability benefits for airlines while improving their bottom line.
Barberot discusses:
Expliseat's revolutionary aircraft seat design made from carbon fibre and titanium that is 30% lighter than comparable products, saving approximately 1,200 kilograms when retrofitted on an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.The immediate environmental impact of their lightweight seats, which deliver a 6% CO2 emission reduction per passenger without requiring airlines to w... Duration: 00:35:21Why Swedavia sees fossil-free flying as a ‘license to operate’
Apr 03, 2025In this episode, we speak with Lena Wennberg, Chief Sustainable Development Officer, and Therese Forsström, Head of Environmental Department at Swedavia, which owns and operates 10 airports across Sweden, connecting the country both internally and with the rest of the world.
Wennberg and Forsström discuss:
Swedavia’s achievement of fossil-free operations in 2020 in their own airport operations, backed by committed leadership that views sustainability as a “license to operate.”Their ambitious goal to enable fossil-free domestic flights... Duration: 00:40:43How Contrails.org aims to turn contrail research into practical climate action
Mar 27, 2025In this episode, we speak with Matteo Mirolo, Director of Strategy & External Relations at Contrails.org, a science-led nonprofit initiative aimed at transforming contrail research into practical climate action.
Mirolo discusses:
The substantial climate impact of contrails, which are responsible for 1-2% of human-caused global warming and have roughly the same warming effect as all aviation CO2 emissions since the jet age.The concentrated nature of the problem, with just 5% of flights causing about 80% of aviation’s contrail warming effect, primarily ove... Duration: 00:34:26How Alaska Star Ventures is funding the future of sustainable aviation
Mar 20, 2025In this episode, we speak with Pasha Saleh, Head of Corporate Development at Alaska Airlines, who leads Alaska Star Ventures, the airline’s corporate venture capital arm focused on sustainable aviation technologies. Saleh shares insights about the airline’s approach to sustainability investments and their vision for decarbonising the industry.
Saleh discusses:
The founding vision for Alaska Star Ventures, which was established to accelerate the development of technologies that don’t yet exist but are essential for achieving net zero.The invest... Duration: 00:47:48How Finnair celebrated its centenary with 100 sustainability initiatives
Mar 13, 2025In this episode, we speak with Eveliina Huurre, Senior Vice President, Sustainability at Finnair, who shares insights about the airline’s approach to sustainability and their ambitious targets to reduce emissions.
Huurre discusses:
The employee engagement initiative that yielded 300 sustainability ideas, with 100 selected for implementation during Finnair’s centenary celebrations, ranging from small cultural changes to more substantial investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).Finnair’s science-based target to reduce carbon emissions intensity by 34.5% by 2033 (using 2023 as the baseline), translating to approxi... Duration: 00:41:57Is demand management in aviation a myth or reality?
Mar 06, 2025In this special episode, we bring together Patrick Edmond, Managing Director of Altair Advisory, and Shashank Nigam, CEO of SimpliFlying, to discuss whether aviation demand management is a myth or a necessary component of climate action.
Moderated by Dirk Singer, SimpliFlying’s Head of Sustainability, the discussion stems from a heated LinkedIn exchange between Patrick and Shashank, sparked by Shashank’s reflections after speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year. As the debate gained momentum online, many called for a...
Duration: 00:56:22How InfluenceMap’s data-driven approach tracks aviation climate advocacy
Feb 27, 2025In this episode, we speak with Lucca Ewbank, Program Manager, Transport at InfluenceMap, who shares how the non-profit think tank uses data-driven analysis to assess corporate engagement with climate policies, and holds the corporate and financial sectors accountable for their role in climate change.
Ewbank discusses:
The significant disparity between what airlines say publicly versus what they advocate for in private meetings with policymakers, uncovered through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests that reveal how industry associations often oppose stronger climate regulations.... Duration: 00:33:51Why Zaffra is betting big on sustainable aviation fuel production
Feb 20, 2025In this episode, we speak with Jan Toschka, CEO of Zaffra, a joint venture between Topsoe and Sasol. Toschka shares insights about scaling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production and why he believes the aviation industry must take responsibility for its own decarbonisation rather than relying on other sectors.
Toschka discusses:
The unique positioning of Zaffra, combining Topsoe’s expertise in low-carbon HEFA technology with Sasol’s experience in building and operating large-scale gas-to-liquid facilities, positioning them strongly in both renewable and synthetic SAF produ... Duration: 00:41:29Why Cathay believes in a “greener together” approach to sustainability
Feb 13, 2025In this episode, we speak with Grace Cheung, General Manager, Sustainability at Cathay, who shares insights about industry collaboration, and why she believes making aviation “greener together” requires participation from every stakeholder in the value chain.
Cheung discusses:
Her journey from marketing communications to sustainability and how her background helps “translate” complex environmental initiatives into understandable business language for stakeholders and customers.Cathay’s ambitious target of achieving 10% SAF usage by 2030, including their innovative partnership with... Duration: 00:54:17Why Mission Possible Partnership believes cross-sector collaboration can accelerate aviation’s path to net-zero
Feb 06, 2025In this episode, we speak with Dick Benschop, Chair of the Board at Mission Possible Partnership (MPP),
an alliance of climate leaders focused on supercharging efforts to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors.
Benschop discusses:
The challenge of decarbonising aviation amid rapid growth with focus on both efficiency and sustainable fuels.How blending mandates can break the “chicken and egg” problem between SAF suppliers and airlines, with Europe’s 2% mandate in 2025 serving as a catalyst for market development. Currently, there are 40... Duration: 00:50:21Why ClimateWorks Foundation believes strategic philanthropy is essential for the net zero transition
Jan 30, 2025In this episode, we speak with Anna Stratton, Associate Director, Aviation at ClimateWorks Foundation, a global platform for philanthropy that has granted over $2 billion to climate solutions across 50 countries.
Stratton shares insights into how philanthropic funding can drive aviation’s transition to net zero while ensuring emerging markets aren’t left behind. She discusses:
The crucial role of philanthropy in advancing sustainable aviation solutions through research, analysis, and policy developmentWhy Europe’s ReFuelEU policy sets a strong standard for sustainable aviatio... Duration: 00:47:17How Heathrow’s SAF incentive aims to tackle critical barriers to adoption
Jan 23, 2025In this episode, we speak with Matthew Gorman, Director of Carbon Strategy and Sustainability at Heathrow Airport.
With 16 years at the helm of Heathrow's sustainability initiatives, Gorman shares how one of the world’s busiest airports is tackling aviation’s climate impact while maintaining its crucial role in global connectivity.
Gorman discusses:
Heathrow’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) incentive scheme, which creates a funding pool through landing charges to help airlines bridge the cost gap of SAF adoption. Starting at 0.5... Duration: 00:48:56How Travalyst is transforming tourism through data-driven collaboration
Jan 16, 2025In this episode, we speak with Sally Davey, CEO of Travalyst. Founded in 2019 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, Travalyst is a not-for-profit coalition that brings together leading companies from the travel and technology sectors.
Davey shares insights into Travalyst’s mission and its impact on making tourism more sustainable through collaborative data initiatives. She discusses:
How Travalyst has united competing travel giants like Google, Booking.com, and Expedia to work together on sustainability, creating a coalition with a market worth of nea... Duration: 00:50:12How Climeworks is making Direct Air Capture a viable decarbonisation pathway
Jan 09, 2025In this episode, we speak with Dr. Christoph Gebald, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks, one of the world’s leading direct air capture (DAC) companies. Gebald shares insights into Climeworks’ journey and vision for the future, and the crucial role of carbon removal in achieving sustainable aviation.
He discusses:
How their direct air capture technology (DAC) removes CO2 from the atmosphere and stores it permanently underground through mineralisation. Climeworks has achieved a significant technological breakthrough with their Generation 3 te... Duration: 00:50:20Best of 2024: How aviation executives are charting the course to net zero
Jan 02, 2025In this special holiday episode, we re-visit conversations with six aviation industry executives about their approaches to sustainability and decarbonisation.
Scandinavian Airlines CEO Anko van der Werff shares how regional environmental consciousness shapes their strategy, combining SAF adoption with electric and hydrogen partnerships. Their first electric flight is scheduled for 2028.Alaska Airlines SVP Diana Birkett Rakow details their 2040 net-zero target, with initiatives including employee bonus links to carbon targets and a partnership with Microsoft for synthetic fuel production.Boeing’s Chief Sustainability Officer Brian Moran discusses their “SAF&” strategy and goal for 10... Duration: 00:26:39Best of 2024: Decoding the future of sustainable aviation fuel
Dec 26, 2024In this special holiday episode, we explore conversations with five industry leaders developing innovative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production technologies.
INERATEC CEO Tim Boeltken explains their modular e-fuel technology that converts green hydrogen and CO2 into carbon-neutral liquid fuels. They aim to transform 1 gigawatt of renewable energy into 125 million gallons of sustainable e-fuel by early 2030s.LanzaJet CEO Jimmy Samartzis discusses their alcohol-to-jet technology, which efficiently converts ethanol into 90% SAF and 10% renewable diesel. Their Georgia facility, LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels, is the world’s first ethanol-to-SAF production plant.Twelve CEO Nicholas Fl... Duration: 00:24:27How engine innovation is powering aviation sustainability
Dec 19, 2024In this episode, we speak with Valérie Guénon, Vice President of Product Environment Policies at Safran Aircraft Engines. She shares insights into how the company aims to tackle its environmental challenges through innovative engine design and sustainable fuel integration.
Guénon discusses Safran’s comprehensive approach to aviation sustainability, and highlights:
The RISE (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) program, developed in partnership with GE Aerospace that features an innovative open fan architecture that could significantly reduce fuel consu... Duration: 00:56:08How business aviation can be the perfect testbed for sustainable aviation solutions
Dec 12, 2024In this episode, we talk to Kennedy Ricci, President of 4AIR, who shares insights into how business aviation can accelerate sustainability initiatives that could benefit the entire industry.
4AIR helps private aviation stakeholders implement impactful sustainability programs, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and industry commitments through independent reviews. Ricci explains 4AIR’s broad approach to aviation sustainability, that extends beyond traditional carbon offsetting.
He discusses:
The development of 4AIR’s four-tier rating system for aviation sustainability, starting with carbon offsetting and progressing to more... Duration: 00:41:06Why airports should become energy innovation hubs, not just transport hubs
Dec 05, 2024In this episode, we speak with Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), who shares her ambitious vision for transforming the airport into a sustainable aviation hub.
Cassotis discusses Pittsburgh’s unique position and innovative approach to aviation sustainability. She highlights several key initiatives:
PIT has achieved a remarkable milestone as the world’s first fully off-grid major airport. Through a public-private partnership, the airport commissioned a microgrid in 2021 that powers its entire operation. The airport is developing three SAF produc... Duration: 00:45:46Why Cambridge’s Aviation Impact Accelerator believes the path to net-zero must be defined by 2030
Nov 28, 2024In this episode, we talk to Professor Robert Miller, Director of the Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, who shares why 2030 targets are crucial for the aviation industry’s transition towards net zero.
Miller is also the head of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA), a collaboration between the Whittle Laboratory and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. The AIA recently released the “Five Years to Chart a New Future for Aviation” report which outlined 4 key Sustainable Aviation Goals...
Duration: 00:55:11How Direct Air Capture can complement aviation’s sustainability toolkit
Nov 21, 2024In this episode, we talk to Anna Stukas, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at 1PointFive, who shares insights into how direct air capture (DAC) technology works and its crucial role in aviation’s journey to net zero.
Stukas, who has been working in carbon capture since 2015, discusses her role in commercialising DAC technology and developing strategic partnerships to scale this critical climate solution.
Stukas discusses:
The fundamental role of DAC in climate action, explaining how it captures CO2 directly fro... Duration: 00:52:50The perils of ignoring contrails in aviation’s race to net-zero
Nov 14, 2024In this episode, we talk to Dr Florian Allroggen, Executive Director, Aerospace Climate & Sustainability, and a Research Scientist in MIT’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, who shares insights into the science of contrails and their impact on aviation’s climate footprint.
Allroggen discusses his role, focusing on understanding aviation’s environmental impact and developing solutions for a net-zero pathway. He highlights several key issues:
The formation of contrails as ice clouds when aircraft exhaust meets cold atmospheric conditions, and th... Duration: 00:48:58Why Airbus wants to build an ecosystem for hydrogen-powered flight
Nov 07, 2024In this episode, we talk to Karine Guenan, Vice President of ZEROe ecosystem at Airbus, who shares insights into Airbus’s ambitious plans to bring hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft to market by 2035 and the unprecedented ecosystem development required to make this vision a reality.
Guenan discusses:
How data-driven decisions can speed up the transition to sustainable flying
Oct 31, 2024In this episode, we talk to Yann Cabaret, CEO of SITA FOR AIRCRAFT, the aircraft business arm of SITA Group. Cabaret shares how SITA’s technology can help airlines meet their sustainability goals through better operational efficiency and compliance management. He also shares insights into SITA’s digital platforms and solutions aimed at reducing aviation’s environmental impact.
Cabaret discusses:
SITA EcoMission, a new platform that helps airlines manage environmental compliance while optimising costs, bringing together different departments – from flight operations to finance – for better collaborat... Duration: 00:41:42Why flight paths matter more than you think for climate change
Oct 24, 2024In this episode, we talk to Sian Andrews, SESAR Environmental Lead at NATS, UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services. She shares insights into how air traffic management can significantly reduce aviation’s environmental impact through innovative solutions and research projects.
Andrews discusses:
NATS’ role in making aviation sustainable through improved air traffic management, including their targets to reach net zero emissions by 2035.The significant but often overlooked impact of contrails on climate change, explaining they can have warming effect... Duration: 00:47:26Why the world’s best-known explorer is backing hydrogen-powered flying
Oct 17, 2024In this episode, we talk to Bertrand Piccard, renowned Swiss explorer, psychiatrist and clean technology pioneer. He shares insights into his ambitious Climate Impulse project that aims to set a historic precedent by flying a hydrogen aircraft around the world non-stop in 9 days.
Piccard achieved global recognition for completing the first non-stop balloon flight around the world and for co-piloting Solar Impulse, the first solar-powered aircraft to circumnavigate the globe. As the founder and chairman of the Solar Impulse Foundation, Piccard continues...
Duration: 00:58:01CATF wants us to re-think everything we know about sustainable aviation
Oct 10, 2024In this episode, we talk to Lee Beck, Senior Director for Europe and the Middle East, and Thomas Walker, Transportation Technology Manager at Clean Air Task Force (CATF), who share insights into innovative solutions for decarbonising the aviation industry.
Beck and Walker discuss CATF's role as a global climate organisation focused on overlooked solutions for decarbonisation and provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of sustainable aviation. They highlight several key issues:
The potential of synthetic fuels to make... Duration: 00:57:15How SAS wants to pioneer sustainable aviation in Scandinavia
Oct 03, 2024In this episode, we talk to Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), who shares insights into the airline’s ambitious sustainability initiatives and how they’re shaped by the unique environmental consciousness of Scandinavia.
SAS, a longstanding Scandinavian carrier, faces distinct challenges and opportunities in its sustainability journey due to the region’s deep-rooted environmental awareness and geographical characteristics. Van der Werff discusses:
The profound impact of Scandinavian environmental consciousness on SAS’s sustainability strategy, which goes beyond compliance to integ... Duration: 00:47:52How Nova Pangaea Technologies plans to turn agricultural and forestry waste into SAF
Sep 26, 2024In this episode, we talk to Sarah Ellerby, CEO of Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT), a UK-based cleantech company that has created a patented technology called the REFNOVA®, to enable SAF production from agricultural and forestry waste.
Ellerby discusses:
NPT’s REFNOVA® technology, which processes non-food derived feedstocks such as sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw into SAF precursors.The dual-product output of the REFNOVA® process: sustainable sugars for SAF production and biochar for soil enhancement and carbon sequestration.... Duration: 00:39:50How LYTE Aviation’s 40-seater eVTOLs could disrupt the status quo
Sep 19, 2024In this episode, we talk to Freshta Farzam, founder and CEO of LYTE Aviation, who shares the company’s innovative approach to developing a 40-seater eVTOL aircraft for regional travel and cargo transport.
Farzam discusses:
The inspiration behind LYTE Aviation’s focus on larger capacity eVTOLs, challenging the industry trend of smaller air taxis.The company’s diverse eVTOL portfolio, which includes the 40-seat SkyBus, the SkyTruck for cargo, and a 19-seat version for business aviation.LYTE Aviation’s target m... Duration: 00:48:31How Estuaire’s data platform can help airlines and airports make better sustainability decisions
Sep 12, 2024In this episode, we talk to Maxime Meijers and Nicolas Meijers, co-founders of Estuaire, who share insights into their innovative data platform that provides comprehensive climate impact assessments for the aviation industry.
Maxime and Nicolas share:
The development of Estuaire’s data platform, which fuses various data sources to provide granular and exhaustive climate impact modelling for individual flights.The significant impact of non-CO2 emissions, particularly contrails, which can represent an additional 30% climate impact on top of CO... Duration: 00:50:34How GBTA is shaping the future of sustainable corporate travel
Sep 05, 2024In this episode, we talk to Delphine Millot, Senior Vice President for Advocacy & Sustainability at Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), who shares insights into GBTA’s initiatives to promote sustainability in business travel and the challenges faced by the industry.
Millot also serves as the Managing Director of the GBTA Foundation, which serves as the charitable arm of GBTA, focusing on workforce development, women empowerment, and addressing climate challenges in the business travel sector.
Millot discusses:
The role of GB... Duration: 00:46:32How INERATEC plans to turn 1 gigawatt of power into 125 million gallons of e-fuel
Aug 29, 2024In this episode, we talk to Tim Boeltken, Founder and Managing Director at INERATEC, who shares insights into the innovative world of e-fuels and their potential to transform the aviation industry and beyond.
INERATEC is at the forefront of e-fuel production, developing modular technology that converts green hydrogen and carbon dioxide into carbon-neutral liquid fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Boeltken discusses:
The basics of e-fuel production, describing it as “liquefied electricity” and explaining the process of combining green hydr... Duration: 00:42:29Can New Zealand achieve its sustainable aviation goals despite its geographical isolation?
Aug 22, 2024In this episode, we talk to Billie Moore, Chief Executive at NZ Airports Association, who shares insights into New Zealand’s distinctive approach to sustainable aviation and the challenges of operating in an isolated island nation.
In essence, the NZ Airports Association serves as a central hub for coordination, advocacy, and knowledge sharing among New Zealand’s airports, with a particular focus on navigating the challenges of sustainability and decarbonisation in the aviation sector.
Moore discusses:
The critical role of a... Duration: 00:52:10Why Transport & Environment believes aviation’s carbon bill is long overdue
Aug 15, 2024In this episode, we talk to Matt Finch, UK Policy Manager at Transport & Environment (T&E), who shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in sustainable aviation.
Finch discusses T&E's role as Europe's leading advocate for clean transport and provides a critical perspective on current efforts to decarbonise the aviation industry. He highlights several key issues:
The lack of fuel duty on aviation fuel, which Finch argues artificially suppresses the cost of air travel and hinders the transition to more sustainable alternatives.<... Duration: 00:50:39How Hawaiian Airlines' approach to sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns
Aug 08, 2024In this episode, we talk to Alanna James, Managing Director Sustainability Initiatives at Hawaiian Airlines, who shares insights into the airline's distinctive approach to sustainability and the challenges of operating in an island environment.
Hawaiian Airlines, a 94-year-old company headquartered in Honolulu, faces unique sustainability challenges due to Hawaii's geographic isolation and vulnerability to climate change. James discusses:
The airline's deep connection to Hawaii and how it informs their approach to sustainability, which goes beyond environmental concerns to include economic and cultural sustainability.The critical... Duration: 00:48:05How Urban-Air Port is revolutionising infrastructure for advanced air mobility
Aug 01, 2024In this episode, we talk to Ricky Sandhu, Founder and Executive Chairman of Urban-Air Port, who shares insights into the company's groundbreaking vertiport technology and vision for the future of urban air mobility (AAM).
Urban-Air Port is at the forefront of AAM infrastructure, with their main product Air-One being the world's first fully-operational and off-grid hub for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Sandhu discusses Urban-Air Port's mission to enable a new era of advanced air mobility through designing, developing, fabricating, and operating innovative airport infrastructure.
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How Jet Zero Australia plans to turn surplus ethanol into SAF
Jul 25, 2024In this episode, we talk to Ed Mason, Founder & CEO of Jet Zero Australia, who shares insights into the company’s ambitious projects to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at a commercial scale.
Jet Zero Australia is an Australian bioenergy company that aims to develop the country’s first Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) facility for SAF production, using surplus ethanol from agricultural and sugarcane byproducts. Mason discusses Jet Zero Australia’s two upcoming projects: Project Ulysses and Project Mandala, which aim to establish Australia as a ma...
Duration: 00:47:41How FLIGHTKEYS promises major climate gains at a minimal cost
Jul 18, 2024In this episode, we talk to Alejandra Martín Frías, Head of Sustainability Research at FLIGHTKEYS, who shares insights into the company’s research on contrail avoidance and its potential impact on aviation sustainability.
Condensation trails, also known as contrails, are long, thin clouds that often form behind an aircraft in cold and humid conditions when water vapour freezes around small dust and soot particles from the engine. Although they look harmless, contrails are made up of small ice crystals that trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere and contri...
Duration: 00:57:37How Boeing’s ‘SAF&’ strategy is laying the foundation for sustainable flying
Jul 11, 2024In this episode, we talk to Brian Moran, Chief Sustainability Officer at Boeing, who shares the company’s multifaceted approach to decarbonising the aviation industry, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), innovative technologies, and the importance of regaining trust in the wake of its recent crisis.
Moran discusses Boeing’s Cascade model, an open-source dynamic data modelling tool developed in partnership with MIT, Cambridge, IATA, and NASA, which helps stakeholders make informed decisions about the relative impact of different decarbonisation strategies. He also delves into Boeing’s role...
Duration: 00:56:31Is demand management the only realistic route to decarbonising aviation?
Jul 04, 2024In this episode, we talk to Ali Warrington, Senior Campaigner at Possible, a UK-based climate charity that enables people to take practical action on climate change.
Possible has been at the forefront of climate action and has been instrumental in lodging formal complaints against airlines like Virgin Atlantic and British Airways for their greenwashing claims. The charity, along with other climate groups has also taken the UK government to court over its Jet Zero strategy.
Warrington believes that th...
Duration: 01:08:54Akshat Rathi explains why ‘hard to decarbonise’ is a myth in aviation
Jun 27, 2024In this episode, we talk to Akshat Rathi, award-winning senior climate reporter for Bloomberg News. Rathi is the host of Bloomberg’s podcast Zero that explores the policies, tactics and clean technologies pushing for a zero emissions future. He is also the author of the book Climate Capitalism, which tracks the unlikely heroes driving the fight against climate change.
Rathi argues that for years the aviation industry has sheltered behind the label of being “hard to decarbonise”, which is not only a miscon...
Duration: 00:50:44How Kenya Airways plans to unleash the country’s untapped SAF potential
Jun 20, 2024In this episode, we talk to Grace Vihenda, Senior Manager, Innovation and Sustainability at Kenya Airways, who shares the airline’s efforts to promote sustainable aviation in Africa, a continent with abundant resources for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production but limited infrastructure and investment.
In 2023, Kenya Airways became the first African airline to use SAF for an intercontinental long-haul flight. The flight was conducted as a part of SkyTeam’s Sustainable Flight Challenge, despite the challenges posed by the lack of a SAF policy framework in the country and the need to purchase the fuel from overseas at a si...
LanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030
Jun 13, 2024In this episode, we talk to Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company’s journey in developing the world’s first proven alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology that converts ethanol into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel.
Samartzis discusses LanzaJet’s ambitious target of producing 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030. Elaborating on LanzaJet’s highly efficient and capital-light ATJ technology, he explains how it can produce up to 90% of fuels as SAF and the remaining 10% as renewable diesel. The process is also adaptable to various feedstocks, including waste materials, allowing LanzaJet to leverage local, su...
Duration: 01:08:09IATA’s blueprint for accelerating SAF production and adoption
Jun 06, 2024In our first-ever bilingual episode, we talk to Preeti Jain, Head of Net Zero Transition Program at the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Jain provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities in scaling up sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to help aviation achieve its goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
The interview is presented in two parts: English followed by Hindi.
Jain discusses the current SAF landscape, highlighting the stark mismatch between demand and supply. Emphasising the need for greater SAF production, she estimates that a...
Duration: 01:15:27The ICCT’s bitter but essential prescription for net zero emissions by 2050
May 30, 2024In this episode, we welcome back Dan Rutherford, Senior Director of Research at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), for his second appearance on the show. Rutherford shares his insights on the latest developments, partnerships, and challenges in reducing aviation emissions and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Rutherford discusses ICCT's expanded collaborations with industry partners, governments, and non-governmental organisations to apply their research directly to various projects and initiatives aimed at reducing aviation emissions. He highlights their work with Google on the Travel Impact Model (TIM...
Duration: 00:56:00Alaska Airlines’ multi-faceted approach to achieving net zero by 2040
May 23, 2024In this episode, we talk to Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, who shares the airline’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
To reach the 2040 goal, Alaska Airlines has developed a comprehensive five-part path. The plan includes focusing on operational efficiency, fleet modernisation, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), new propulsion technologies, and the use of carbon credits as a last resort.
Rakow discusses the importance of employee and customer engagement in advancing the airline’s sustainability goals. She...
Duration: 00:56:29How Elysian’s 90-seater aircraft promises a breakthrough in electric aviation
May 16, 2024In this episode, we talk to Daniel Rosen Jacobson, co-founder, co-CEO and Chief Business Officer of Elysian Aircraft, a startup that is developing a clean-sheet 90-seater battery electric aircraft.
Jacobson discusses Elysian’s unique approach to electric aviation, which focuses on a larger aircraft capable of carrying passengers over distances of about 800 km – longer than most current electric aircraft concepts. By targeting the busy short-haul market with a plane that can operate at costs competitive with conventional jets, Elysian aims to make a significant impact on the sustainability of regional air...
Duration: 00:47:46From offsetting to insetting: Harbour Air’s innovative approach to sustainable aviation
May 09, 2024In this episode, we talk to three key members of Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline. Harbour Air’s CEO Bert Van Der Stege, Engineering and Quality Manager Erika Holtz, and Head of Digital and Customer Experience Suzanne Bremski discuss the airline’s vision for the future of electric aviation.
Harbour Air has a strong track record of prioritising sustainability, being the first airline to introduce carbon offsetting in 2007. The airline was also the first to operate an electric plane in 2019 with its e-plane initia...
Duration: 00:46:40How Safe Landing is challenging the status quo for a greener future in aviation
May 02, 2024In this episode, we talk to Finlay Asher, co-founder of Safe Landing, a global community of aviation workers who are working within the sector to reduce the climate impact of aviation.
Asher emphasises the need for a holistic approach to sustainable aviation, which goes beyond efficiency improvements and includes demand reduction measures. He touches upon the challenges of balancing growth and sustainability in the aviation industry, highlighting the need for government intervention and the enforcement of carbon budgets to ensure a managed transition.
The potential and li...
Duration: 01:15:00Earth Day Special: SimpliFlying’s first annual Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report
Apr 25, 2024In this episode, we speak with SimpliFlying’s CEO Shashank Nigam, COO Shubhodeep Pal and Head of Sustainability, Dirk Singer about the launch of SimpliFlying’s first annual Sustainable Aviation Outlook Report.
As the world reels from the catastrophic consequences of climate change, the question of what the aviation industry can do about sustainability is rife with divided opinions. Is net zero by 2050 realistic? Is it equitable for all? Do we have the money to make it happen? Will customers support it? Aviation’s pathways to net zero are also hotly...
Duration: 00:59:14How Beyond Aero is transforming private aviation with its hydrogen-electric vision
Apr 18, 2024In this episode, we talk to Eloa Guillotin, the Co-Founder & CEO at Beyond Aero. Founded with the vision of providing a sustainable alternative to traditional private jets, Beyond Aero aims to revolutionise the industry by focusing on the CS-23 certification category for a six-passenger aircraft.
Guillotin discusses Beyond Aero’s innovative approach to aircraft design, which involves a 100% electric powertrain powered by hydrogen fuel cells. This design choice allows for an extended range of up to 800 nautical miles, making it suitable for popular routes in Europe and the United States. Sh...
Duration: 00:57:35Gatwick Airport aims to reach net zero 20 years early
Apr 11, 2024In this episode, we talk to Mark Edwards, Head of Sustainability at London Gatwick. As one of the busiest airports in Europe, Gatwick has set an ambitious target to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, 20 years ahead of the UK’s national target.
Edwards discusses Gatwick’s multi-faceted approach to sustainability, which includes addressing Scope 1 and 2 emissions through the use of renewable electricity, transitioning away from fossil fuels through the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and gradually converting their vehicle fleet to electric. He also touches upon the challenges of reducing Scope 3 emissions, which prim...
Duration: 00:44:14Jet Zero Council’s Collaborative Approach to Decarbonising UK Aviation
Apr 04, 2024In this episode, we talk to Rachel Gardner-Poole, who chairs the Zero Emission Flight (ZEF) Delivery Group within the UK’s Jet Zero Council. Established in 2020, the Jet Zero Council is a collaborative effort between the government, industry, and academia to achieve net zero emissions in UK aviation by 2050.
Gardner-Poole discusses the UK Government’s multi-departmental involvement in the Jet Zero Council, highlighting the importance of cross-departmental collaboration in achieving net zero emissions. The conversation centers on the various strategies and technologies being explored to decarbonise UK aviation. Gardner-Poole emphasises the...
Duration: 00:36:02How Truckee Tahoe Airport is transitioning towards its 100% SAF goal
Mar 28, 2024In this episode, we speak with Robb Etnyre, General Manager at Truckee Tahoe Airport (KTRK), a pioneering general aviation airport that has become the first in the world to fully transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Located near the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Truckee Tahoe Airport serves a diverse range of private and business aviation customers.
Etnyre shares the story of KTRK’s decision to power 100% of their flights using SAF, driven by the impacts of climate change witnessed firsthand in the region, such as severe wildfires and smoke. He highlights the airport’s co...
Duration: 00:32:42How Google is empowering sustainable travel choices through technology and collaboration
Mar 21, 2024In this episode, we speak with Sebnem Erzan, Global Head of Travel Sustainability & Transport at Google. Erzan shares the tech giant’s vision for sustainable travel, which focuses on empowering users with accurate and consistent information to make environmentally conscious travel decisions.
Erzan highlights the importance of the Travel Impact Model, a transparent and non-commercial tool developed by Google to calculate carbon emissions for flights. The model, overseen by an independent advisory committee, is available to the entire industry, fostering collaboration and alignment in emissions measurement.
She...
Duration: 00:47:03Archer’s vision for safe, affordable, and accessible eVTOL travel
Mar 14, 2024In this episode, we talk to Billy Nolen, Chief Safety Officer at Archer Aviation, a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft company. Nolen recently joined Archer after a distinguished career at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), bringing with him a wealth of experience in aviation safety and regulation.
Nolen provides an in-depth look at Archer’s progress in certifying their eVTOL aircraft, Midnight, for commercial passenger service. He outlines the rigorous FAA certification process, and expresses confidence in Archer’s timeline, which expects to ente...
Duration: 00:49:55Salesforce’s unique approach to advancing sustainable aviation
Mar 07, 2024In this episode, we talk to Jamila Yamani, Director of Climate & Energy at Salesforce, who shares fascinating insights into the company’s commitment to sustainability, and how the company is taking a unique approach to advancing sustainable aviation as a non-airline entity.
Yamani discusses why sustainability matters to Salesforce, emphasising that it’s not just about risk mitigation but also about leveraging their platform to accelerate the global transition to net zero. She highlights Salesforce’s role in sponsoring the Sustainable Aviation Challenge, launched by UpLink in par...
Duration: 00:40:03RMI's multi-pronged approach to decarbonising aviation includes SAF & contrails
Feb 29, 2024In this episode, we talk to Andrew Chen, Principal for Aviation Decarbonisation at RMI. Founded in 1982 as Rocky Mountain Institute, RMI is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit that seeks to transform the global energy system to ensure a clean, zero-carbon future.
Chen discusses RMI's multi-faceted approach to aviation decarbonisation, which includes stimulating demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and addressing aviation's non-CO2 emissions – specifically, the environmental impacts of contrails. He also touches upon RMI's broader mission concerning the decarbonisation of heavy industry and transportation sectors.
Central to the...
Duration: 01:06:14How the Sustainable Skies Lab is advancing sustainability beyond Delta’s operations
Feb 22, 2024In this episode, we talk to Sangita Sharma, Director of Delta Air Lines’ Sustainable Skies Lab, who shares how the lab is fostering innovation and accelerating a sustainable future for air travel.
The Sustainable Skies Lab aims to advance research, design and testing for transformative sustainable innovations, for both near-term and long-term environmental goals. The lab seeks to merge Delta’s extensive operational knowledge with cutting-edge innovations across the aviation industry, creating a collaborative environment for testing and scaling new technologies. An example of the lab’s efforts is ongoing testin...
Duration: 00:39:50How Twelve’s carbon transformation technology is making carbon-neutral fuels a reality
Feb 15, 2024In this episode, we talk to Nicholas Flanders, Co-Founder and CEO of carbon transformation company, Twelve, who highlights the pivotal role of clean technology in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in hard-to-decarbonise sectors like aviation.
The versatility of Twelve’s technology is underscored by their ability to transform CO2 into a wide range of products, from sunglasses and washing detergents to car parts. Twelve’s innovative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), called E-Jet®, made from CO2 and water, has up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions than conventional fuel. Flanders also...
Duration: 00:35:30How IATA envisions merging economics and sustainability in aviation
Feb 08, 2024In this episode, we talk to Marie Owens Thomsen, Senior Vice President Sustainability & Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), on the integration of sustainability and economics within the aviation sector, highlighting the pivotal role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the challenges of balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
Thomsen emphasises the interconnectedness of economic considerations and environmental sustainability, advocating for a systemic approach that extends beyond aviation to include energy producers, policymakers, and financial institutions.
The conversation further delves i...
Duration: 00:57:27From Legislation to Lift-off: The Drive for Sustainable Aviation Fuel in Washington
Feb 01, 2024In this episode, we talk to Senator Andy Billig, Senate Majority Leader at Washington State Senate, on how he has spearheaded efforts to integrate environmental stewardship with legislative action in Washington State.
Billig’s journey in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) began in 2012, leading to pivotal legislation like Senate Bill 5447, which incentivises SAF production to complement Washington’s aerospace and technological sectors. The bill, developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders and aimed at boosting local SAF production, has been well-received for its flexibility and environmental focus. Despite challenges in educating legislators and...
Duration: 00:44:51How the RSB is nudging aviation towards a biocircular economy
Jan 25, 2024In this episode, we talk to Elena Schmidt, Executive Director of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB).
RSB is a global, multi-stakeholder independent organisation that drives the development of a new world bio-economy through sustainability solutions, certification, and collaborative partnerships.
Schmidt acknowledges the difficulties in decarbonising aviation, given the reliance on fossil fuels and the current limitations of alternatives like hydrogen or electric planes. RSB views the ‘book and claim’ system for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) as an effective solution.
In 2021, RSB launc...
Duration: 00:47:12Why IAG is focusing on the practicality of SAF more than emerging technologies
Jan 18, 2024In this episode, we talk to Jonathon Counsell, Group Head of Sustainability at International Airlines Group (IAG).
IAG is the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, Aer Lingus, LEVEL, IAG Loyalty and IAG Cargo. The group plays a critical role in setting the sustainability strategy and targets for its subsidiary airlines, and collaborates with governments and investors to realise these goals.
Counsell emphasises the importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in decarbonising aviation and discusses IAG’s SAF strategy. For example, in 2021, IAG became the fi...
Duration: 00:49:24Are eFuels the holy grail of sustainable aviation fuels?
Jan 11, 2024In this episode, we talk to Amy Hebert, Chair of the Board and CEO at Arcadia eFuels, who discusses the rapidly growing field of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with a focus on e-fuels.
eFuels are produced with electricity from renewable sources, water and CO2 and are a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Hebert discusses her entry into the field, driven by the untapped potential for carbon-neutral fuels despite existing technologies like Gas to Liquids and green hydrogen electrolysers. Arcadia, her company, aims for rapid market entry and large-scale e...
Duration: 00:29:41How Red Sea Global’s innovative approach is revolutionising sustainable tourism
Jan 04, 2024Welcome to the holiday edition of Sustainability in the Air, the world's #1 podcast on sustainable aviation. Over the past couple of weeks, we have brought to you some of the finest conversations from our archives with added context based on the latest updates from the companies featured.
Following our first holiday special with Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines and second with Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer, we bring to you our third and final holiday special: a fascinating conversation with John Pagano, CE...
Duration: 00:58:14Why Delta’s collaborative strategy is the roadmap for cleaner skies
Dec 28, 2023Welcome to the holiday edition of Sustainability in the Air, the world’s #1 podcast on sustainable aviation. Over the next couple of weeks, we will bring to you some of the finest conversations from our archives and add context based on the latest updates from the companies featured.
Following up our first holiday special with Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines is our conversation with Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer. Since our episode with Delta—recorded about six months ago—they’ve made a number o...
Duration: 00:47:40Is United’s aggressive approach to sustainability a model for the industry?
Dec 21, 2023Welcome to the holiday edition of Sustainability in the Air, the world’s #1 podcast on sustainable aviation. Over the next couple of weeks, we will bring to you some of the finest conversations from our archives and add context based on the latest updates from the companies featured.
First up is our episode with Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines, an airline that continues to set new standards in terms of their sustainability commitments and efforts. Since our episode with them—incidentally one of our earliest—they’ve made a number of major announce...
Duration: 00:37:22How the Airbus ZEROe project will transform aviation
Dec 14, 2023In this episode we talk to Bertrand Lestimé, ZEROe Market and Customers Leader at Airbus, who outlines the airframer’s multi-pronged strategy to reach net-zero.
Lestimé shares how Airbus is focusing on fleet renewal, improving operational efficiency and air traffic management, and investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and carbon removal technologies. A pivotal part of Airbus’ strategy is the ZEROe project, dedicated to developing hydrogen-powered aircraft, seen as a game-changer for the industry.
Lestimé also discusses the challenges associated with integrating hydrogen into aviation – aircraft redesign, setting up requisite infrastru...
Duration: 00:47:37How Southwest Airlines maintains affordability while pursuing sustainability
Dec 07, 2023In this episode we talk to Helen Giles, Managing Director of Environmental Sustainability at Southwest Airlines, who shares how the low-cost carrier is integrating sustainability into its operations.
Giles discusses how Southwest is balancing growth with sustainability, the airline’s net zero roadmap and the crucial role of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in reducing the airline’s carbon emissions. She also shares the potential of hydrogen and alternative propulsion systems in aviation, acknowledging their long-term possibilities while also highlighting their current limitations for Southwest’s fleet. Instead, she emphasises the importa...
Duration: 00:49:23How Virent is using “nature’s carbon capturers” to make sustainable fuels
Nov 30, 2023In this episode, we talk to Dave Kettner, President and General Counsel at Virent about the company’s innovative contributions to renewable energy and its pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future in aviation.
Kettner emphasises their breakthroughs in renewable fuels, particularly their BioForming process that converts plant carbohydrates into bioformate, a green alternative to petroleum products. This process is used to create sustainable gasoline, aviation fuel, and materials for various industries, marking a shift to plant-based resources.
Kettner also highlights Virent’s rapid conversion of plan...
Duration: 00:38:41How to rethink tourism and aviation for a greener future
Nov 23, 2023In this episode we talk to Dr Susanne Becken, Professor of Sustainable Tourism at Griffith University, Australia, who discusses various aspects of sustainable travel and its relationship with climate change.
With her roots in Germany, current engagement at Griffith University in Australia, and residing in New Zealand, Becken is a unique voice in sustainable tourism. Her global lifestyle has fostered a deep connection with airlines, fuelling her dedication to enhancing their sustainability.
Becken has widely published on the topics of sustainable tourism, energy use and greenhouse g...
Duration: 00:44:02How World Energy is shaping the future of sustainable aviation fuel
Nov 16, 2023In this episode we talk to Gene Gebolys, President and CEO at World Energy, the world’s first producer of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that has been in the business of renewable fuels for over 25 years. They produce sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, and renewable naphtha, with plans to create renewable propane and green hydrogen.
Gebolys delves into the intricacies and future of SAF in this conversation. Emphasising World Energy’s transition from a biofuels company to a leader in SAF, he highlights the critical role of hydrogen in SAF prod...
Duration: 00:59:51British Airways’ route to sustainability with BA Better World
Nov 09, 2023In this episode, we talk to Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, who discusses the airline’s commitment to net zero, and the overarching BA Better World sustainability strategy.
We will learn about BA’s short-, medium- and long-term initiatives to support greener flying, its CO2llaborate platform that embeds sustainability into the customer journey, the comprehensive employee engagement program, and the airline’s strong focus on operational efficiencies. Harris also highlights BA’s investments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), the airline’s efforts to reduce waste and single-use plastics, and its research p...
Duration: 00:56:15Sustainability in the Air: Pioneering the Green Future of Aviation
Nov 02, 2023In this episode, we speak with SimpliFlying’s CEO Shashank Nigam, and Head of Sustainability Dirk Singer, about the launch of their brand new book, ‘Sustainability in the Air.’
The aviation industry finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the environmental consequences of its operations. While today aviation’s global share of greenhouse gases is around 3%, that could grow to 22% by 2050 if left unchecked. But the authors of Sustainability in the Air argue that this is not a doomsday scenario; it’s a call to action.
In their bo...
Duration: 00:53:53What do climate activists really want?
Oct 26, 2023In this episode we talk to Hiske Arts, Campaigner at Fossil Free NL (Fossielvrij NL), a Dutch citizens’ movement seeking to “break the power of the fossil fuel industry”.
Arts voices her concerns about the aviation industry’s contributions to the climate crisis and emphasises her scepticism about the aviation industry’s genuine commitment to addressing climate concerns. The conversation delves into the concept of a “carbon budget” and the aviation industry’s emissions, with Hiske arguing that the sector faces unique challenges to become sustainable.
We also learn abou...
Duration: 00:55:48What does it take to produce an aircraft-worthy battery?
Oct 19, 2023In this episode we talk to Nathan Millecam, President & CEO of Electric Power Systems (EP Systems) about designing the perfect battery to power electric aircraft.
Millecam’s company is a pioneer in aircraft battery technology. His journey began with a role at Honeywell Aerospace, where he worked on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s power system. This introduced him to the potential of lithium-ion batteries in aviation. He then started EP Systems in 2016 to explore the potential application of lithium-ion batteries in aircraft, given their improving power density and followed this up with...
Duration: 00:45:30How the Lilium Jet will open up new frontiers for eVTOLs
Oct 12, 2023In this episode we talk to Daniel Wiegand, Co-founder & Chief Engineer for Innovation and Future Programmes at Lilium. He shares Lilium’s vision to revolutionise regional air mobility by building the world’s first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet.
While most eVTOLs are seen as advanced versions of helicopters, Lilium Jet’s unique design allows for passengers to be transported using vertical takeoff and landing, and then proceed with what they’re terming “jet propulsion” for travel. The company expects its first eVTOL jet to enter com...
Duration: 00:41:10How daa is establishing a blueprint for sustainable airport operations
Oct 05, 2023In this episode we talk to Andrea Carroll, Group Head of Sustainability at daa, about how the global airport group is taking a holistic approach to sustainability and fostering a climate positive culture that promotes sustainability as a shared responsibility.
daa group are the commercial semi-state operators of Dublin and Cork airports; airport retail operators (ARI) and management consulting (daai). As daa has grown to have a presence in about 15 countries, it has shed...
Duration: 00:51:21The non-profit working behind the scenes to get aviation to net zero by 2050
Sep 28, 2023In this episode, we talk to Haldane Dodd, Executive Director at Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), about how the non-profit is assisting the aviation industry in its net-zero by 2050 journey.
Since 1990, the Geneva-based ATAG has brought the industry together to address the most pressing issues of the day. Their membership currently comprises over 40 organisations, including airframe and engine manufacturers, airlines, airports, and sustainable fuel companies. They offer platforms for collaboration, provide valuable data, and develop educational resources, promoting the industry’s sustainability efforts.
Th...
Duration: 00:53:51How Eve Air Mobility’s eVTOLs are re-imagining the passenger experience of the future
Sep 21, 2023In this episode, we talk to André Stein, Chief Strategy Officer at Eve Air Mobility, a subsidiary of the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer.
Stein talks about the transformative potential of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in urban mobility. He explains how Eve is emphasising the passenger experience, striving to cater to a wide demographic, including the elderly, visually impaired, wheelchair users, and addressing concerns like motion sickness.
We’ll also learn about how Eve leverages the capabilities of its parent company, Embraer...
Duration: 00:50:29How Direct Air Capture technology could ensure long-term SAF supply
Sep 14, 2023In this episode, we talk to Amy Ruddock, VP Europe and Middle East at Carbon Engineering.
Based in British Columbia, Canada, Carbon Engineering aims to combat climate change by globally implementing Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology at a megaton-scale. Unlike traditional methods, DAC directly extracts CO2, the key greenhouse gas behind climate change, from the atmosphere, addressing both current unavoidable emissions and past CO2 emissions still present in the atmosphere.
The discussion centers on carbon emissions, capture, and aviation’s role in climate change. Ruddock calls for...
Duration: 00:41:02