Can household waste truly fuel aircraft?

A recent UCL techno-economic analysis on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production from municipal solid waste delivers critical insights for the energy transition.

Key findings:

Two pathways assessed

• BECCS: 95% CO₂ capture with permanent storage → achieves negative emissions

• PBtL: Green hydrogen integration → boosts SAF yield but significantly increases energy consumption

Economic reality

Minimum production cost: £7.7/kg SAF — substantially higher than conventional jet fuel. Without policy support, commercial viability remains out of reach.

 Environmental performance

Up to 90% emissions reduction compared to fossil-based jet fuel, with BECCS offering net-negative potential.

The bottom line

Technology is ready. Cost is the barrier. Mandates, carbon pricing, and targeted incentives are essential to bridge the gap.