Indian businesses are exploring the option of using cleaner fuel for their business flights, as they seek to reduce their carbon footprint and address the growing concerns over air pollution. While this move is expected to increase costs for companies, many believe that it is a necessary step towards achieving sustainable growth.
At present, most commercial airlines in India use aviation turbine fuel (ATF), a type of fossil fuel that is highly polluting and emits large amounts of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. However, with the growing awareness of the impact of air pollution on human health and the environment, businesses are now exploring cleaner alternatives such as biofuels, electric planes, and hydrogen fuel cells.
Biofuels, in particular, are being touted as a potential solution to the problem of air pollution. These fuels are made from renewable sources such as sugarcane, corn, and other crops, and are considered to be a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. They emit lower levels of carbon dioxide and other pollutants, and can be used in existing aircraft engines without any modification.
Several Indian companies are already experimenting with biofuels for their business flights. For example, SpiceJet, one of the country’s largest airlines, conducted a test flight using biojet fuel in 2018. The fuel, which was produced from jatropha seeds, reduced carbon emissions by around 15%.
Similarly, Indian Oil Corporation, the country’s largest oil refiner, is working on developing biofuels from various sources, including algae and other microorganisms. The company has also set up a biofuels research and development center in Faridabad to accelerate its research in this area.
However, despite the potential benefits of biofuels, they are currently more expensive than traditional jet fuel, which could deter businesses from adopting them on a large scale. The cost of biojet fuel is currently around 30-40% higher than that of traditional jet fuel, according to industry estimates.
Electric planes and hydrogen fuel cells are other potential solutions to the problem of air pollution, but they are still in the experimental stage and are not yet commercially viable for most businesses. However, some companies are investing in these technologies in the hope that they will become more affordable and widely available in the future.
Indian businesses are also exploring other ways to reduce their carbon footprint, such as video conferencing and telecommuting, which can reduce the need for business travel. Many companies are also adopting more sustainable practices in their operations, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and using renewable energy sources.
The move towards cleaner fuel for business flights is part of a broader trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility in Indian businesses. With the country facing growing environmental challenges such as air pollution, water scarcity, and climate change, many companies are recognizing the need to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their impact on the environment.
The Indian government has also been pushing for greater adoption of clean energy and sustainability practices, with initiatives such as the National Biofuel Policy, which aims to increase the use of biofuels in the transportation sector. The government has also set ambitious targets for the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, which are expected to drive the growth of clean energy in the country.
However, the adoption of cleaner fuel for business flights is likely to face several challenges, including the high cost of biofuels, the lack of infrastructure for electric planes and hydrogen fuel cells, and the resistance of traditional oil and gas companies to the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Despite these challenges, many businesses are optimistic about the potential of clean fuel to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable growth. With increasing pressure from regulators, investors, and consumers to adopt more sustainable practices, the adoption of clean fuel for business flights is likely to become more widespread in the coming years.
