EBB sets out policy priorities to boost EU SAF investment  

The European Biodiesel Board (EBB) has today unveiled its policy priorities aimed at accelerating investment, scaling up production and strengthening the competitiveness of bio-based sustainable aviation fuel (bioSAF) across the EU.

Representing producers of Biodiesel (FAME and HVO) and bio-based aviation fuel (HEFA), the EBB emphasises that maintaining the ambition of EU aviation decarbonisation policies is essential for investor confidence and long‑term emissions reductions, while noting that targeted improvements—particularly to the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation—are needed.

A central recommendation is the introduction of a predictable annual SAF mandate trajectory. The EBB warns that the current five‑year step increases, such as the jump from 6% in 2030–2034 to 20% in 2035, do not reflect industrial realities and risk creating temporary mismatches between production capacity and mandated demand.

A smoother year‑on‑year trajectory would, the association argues, support investment decisions and simplify offtake planning for both producers and airlines.

The EBB also calls for a ‘SAF surplus and pre‑fulfilment’ mechanism to provide greater flexibility, alongside measures within the EU ETS for Aviation to support EU‑produced SAF, address carbon leakage risks and recognise co‑production of eSAF with bioSAF.

Finally, the EBB highlights a growing “feedstock paradox”, urging the EU to streamline eligibility rules and rely solely on the Renewable Energy Directive’s sustainability and greenhouse‑gas criteria.