By leveraging Kenya’s existing energy infrastructure, Kenya Airways aims to increase access to more affordable Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for airlines operating across the continent. This approach not only reduces emissions from both fuel production and transport, but also minimizes the environmental impact of importing SAF from distant locations. Additionally, it helps establish a reliable, sustainable fuel source for African carriers. A critical component of this effort is the development of supportive national policies. In 2024, Kenya Airways played a leading role in forming the National SAF Committee, tasked with reviewing and updating Kenya’s renewable energy policies to formally include SAF. This initiative is designed to secure long-term government support, enabling SAF adoption at scale throughout Kenya and potentially across the wider region. Developing a Sustainable SAF Supply Chain Kenya Airways is approaching SAF development holistically, ensuring both fuel production and feedstock cultivation align with long-term sustainability goals. Key elements of this strategy include: Use of Nonagricultural Land Former mining areas and degraded land are being repurposed for energy crop cultivation, avoiding competition with food production. Environmental Restoration Planting SAF feedstocks on barren land supports reforestation, improves soil health, and contributes to greater biodiversity. Local Production Partnerships Kenya Airways is collaborating with domestic SAF producers, offering technical, market, and regulatory support to ensure fuel is produced efficiently and sustainably. International Certification Compliance In partnership with ICAO, IATA, and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Airways is ensuring that locally produced SAF meets international aviation standards—laying the groundwork for wider adoption across Africa.
SAS is leading the way in sustainable cargo transport by replacing wooden support planks with lightweight, recyclable cardboard alternatives. This initiative significantly reduces weight, lowers fuel consumption, and minimizes CO2 emissions, demonstrating SAS’s commitment to environmental responsibility. By adopting this solution, SAS highlights how sustainability and operational efficiency can go hand in hand. The switch to recyclable planks has already resulted in approximately 60,000 kilograms of CO2 savings in 2023 and 2024, with further reductions expected in 2025. Additional benefits include improved cargo handling, reduced physical strain on staff, and simplified compliance due to the planks not requiring pest treatment. The initiative sets a strong precedent for other airlines aiming to reduce their environmental footprint. SAS’s structured approach — starting with testing in Copenhagen and expanding across more routes — illustrates how sustainability can be effectively integrated into cargo operations. In addition to environmental impact, the shift supports cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency. As SAS continues to scale this initiative, it proves that meaningful sustainability in aviation is not only possible but also beneficial for the environment, business operations, and broader industry innovation.