The United Airlines had invested in biofuel as a source to power-up their jet engines. They are the first airline to fly using this renewable energy.
This was made possible by the partnership of United Airlines to Fulcrum BioEnergy which developed a technology to innovate trash to jet fuel.
Through this breakthrough in technology, household waste, also known as 'municipal solid waste' is converted to jet fuel for airline usage. This biofuel is also less harmful for the environment and compared to the standard jet fuels available today.
According to Fulcrum, biofuel will lessen the effects of carbon emissions by 80% as compared to other conventional fuels used. A thermochemical process (the application of energy and heat in relation to chemical reactions) was used to determine the over-all effect of the renewable fuel to the environment. Results concluded that the fuel produces lower cost and lower carbon. The process was also considered environmentally friendly.
Shortage would not be an issue since this Fulcrum biofuel relies on human waste and garbage. Theoretically, these wastes can be converted to renewable energy to be used in almost everything including transportation and electricity.
The US Airforce and US Navy also helped Fulcrum to ensure that military specifications intended for renewable energy were met and to ensure as well that the entire process is environmentally efficient.
Fulcrum BioEnergy and United Airlines both have the same goal of reducing carbon emissions and to protect the environment. United is also aiming that the partnership will open opportunities for employment and in decreasing the effects of landfills.
United operates with an average of 5000 flights per day to 373 airports around the world. So the environmental impact of using this renewable energy instead is very critical.
The flights powered by Fulcrum's biofuel energy are set to take off in 2017.
