Book and Claim System Vital to Aviation’s Short-Term Decarbonization Goals
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A new model leveraging administrative records, known as “book and claim,” is emerging as a critical tool for accelerating the adoption of Lasting Aviation Fuel (SAF) and achieving near-term emissions reductions, industry leaders say.While SAF is widely recognized as central to decarbonizing the aviation sector, widespread physical availability remains a notable hurdle.
The challenge lies in the current limitations of SAF production and distribution. “Having said that, adoption and penetration of SAF hasn’t really picked up massively,” a senior official stated. “It’s not due to lack of production capacity, but ther are lots of things that are at play.”
Understanding the ‘Book and Claim’ Model
Book and claim operates as a chain of custody model, as defined by ISO 22095:2020, where administrative records detailing emissions reductions aren’t necessarily tied to the physical flow of the fuel itself. This allows access to SAF’s lifecycle GHG benefits even when it’s unavailable locally, bridging supply gaps.
This approach is essential for companies striving to meet sustainability targets. “To be bold, without book and claim, no short-term science-based target will be achieved,” according to a vice president of ESG accounting. “Book and claim is essential to achieving science-based targets.”
The Logistical Realities of SAF Distribution
SAF Distribution is currently impractical on a widespread scale.Production facilities are concentrated, requiring potentially complex and emission-intensive global shipping to meet localized demand. Book and claim unlocks SAF benefits now, without waiting for expanded supply.
Furthermore, physically transporting SAF globally would increase overall emissions. “It might no longer be needed when we have SAF product facilities at each airport in the future,” one expert added. “But at the moment, that’s not the case.”
Integrating Book and Claim into Sustainability Strategies
Sustainability Integration: For companies like DHL, book and claim supports decarbonizing logistics, assisting customers with their goals, and ensuring credible emissions claims. It’s a key component of broader sustainability initiatives.
This need for credibility spurred the 2022 launch of Shell’s Avelia, a blockchain-powered digital SAF book and claim solution. The platform expanded in 2024 to include air freight alongside business travel. Avelia shares SAF’s lifecycle GHG reduction benefits with shippers.
Blockchain Technology Enhances Openness and Trust
Blockchain’s Role: The system’s physical supply chain foundation, coupled with blockchain, assures customers that SAF has been used and environmental attributes tracked. This provides peace of mind regarding emissions reductions.
As the aviation industry navigates decarbonization, book and claim is a vital bridge, enabling tangible progress even before SAF becomes universally accessible.
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