Carbon credits in the aviation sector: the contribution of biochar to carbon offsetting

In the endeavour to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, the aviation sector warrants significant consideration, as it accounts for 2% of global emissions. Due to current technological limitations hindering the feasibility of transitioning to electric or hydrogen propulsion, the viable path forward lies in sustainable fuels. Within this framework, the potential of biochar for carbon dioxide sequestration emerges, thereby reducing fuel emissions. This study aims to assess its economic feasibility within the contexts of European and international legislation. Economic analysis was conducted using MATLAB and Excel models, comparing fuel prices and the cost of necessary credits, while also considering various feedstocks. Additionally, a scenario was developed for an airline through 2030, exploring potential decarbonization alternatives. Results revealed a persistently high cost of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), yet utilizing biochar halved this cost, leading to a 14% reduction in total expenses, approaching the baseline scenario of fossil fuel usage. Furthermore, potential fluctuations in carbon credit costs in the coming years due to increased regulation are to be considered. Overall, biochar shows a viable solution for enhancing the competitiveness of sustainable fuels relative to fossil fuels and may serve as a revenue source in voluntary markets. However, a reduction of the price of SAF will be the real improvement for competing with the fossil solution in the upcoming years.