In this episode, we talk to Ed Mason, Founder & CEO of Jet Zero Australia, who shares insights into the company’s ambitious projects to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at a commercial scale. 

Jet Zero Australia is an Australian bioenergy company that aims to develop the country’s first Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) facility for SAF production, using surplus ethanol from agricultural and sugarcane byproducts. Mason discusses Jet Zero Australia’s two upcoming projects: Project Ulysses and Project Mandala, which aim to establish Australia as a major player in the SAF market. Project Ulysses will use LanzaJet’s ATJ technology, to convert bioethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. 

Mason provides insights into the strategic choice of Townsville as the location for Project Ulysses, citing factors such as renewable energy availability, proximity to feedstock, and supportive local infrastructure. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities in SAF distribution and the role of the book and claim system in expanding the reach of SAF benefits. Mason also highlights the critical role of partnerships in the SAF industry, with Jet Zero Australia collaborating with major players like Qantas, Airbus, Idemitsu and the Queensland Government. 

Delving into the economic impact of SAF production, Mason highlights the industry’s potential for job creation and emphasises the need for continued innovation and collaboration to achieve sustainable aviation goals.

If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the conversation we had with Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, who shares the company’s journey in developing the world’s first proven ATJ technology that converts ethanol into SAF and renewable diesel. Check it out here. 

Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry’s challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book ‘Sustainability in the Air’. Click here to learn more.

Feel free to reach out via email to [email protected]. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It’s about time.

Links & More:

Jet Zero Australia 

Project Ulysses - Jet Zero Australia

LanzaJet and Jet Zero agree to develop Australia’s first ethanol-to-SAF plant - GreenAir News  

Idemitsu, Qantas and Airbus back Australia biofuel refiner with $25.5 million - The Straits Times 

LanzaJet plans to produce 1 billion gallons of SAF by 2030 - SimpliFlying