Google joins Shell-backed SAF programme

Google has joined a Shell-backed blockchain platform that allows airlines to sell sustainable aviation biofuels (SAF) credits to business customers.
The Avelia programme was launched by Shell and American Express Global Business Travel (BGT) last year.
It aims to initially offer 1 million gallons of SAF credits to corporate customers.
The initiative aims to connect firms with airlines willing to share the price premium on SAF in order to slash emissions as well as ramp up demand in the emerging low carbon biofuels market.
It claims to be world's first blockchain-powered SAF ‘book and claims' solutions for corporates looking to decarbonise their business travel.
Google joins the likes of Bank of America and insurance giant Aon, alongside airlines such as Delta, Cathay Pacific, JetBlue and Japan Airlines.
Michael Terrell, senior director of climate and energy at Google said the use of SAF would play a "critical role" in helping drive down emissions from aviation.
"Joining Amex GBT's sustainable aviation fuel programme further represents Google's continued efforts to accelerate the global transition to a carbon-free future," he said.
Andrew Crawley, president at Amex GBT, argued SAF had a key role to play in decarbonising flight, which makes up around 90% of business travel emissions, thereby underscoring the importance for firms in tackling their aviation carbon footprint.
Jan Toschka, president at Shell Aviation, also welcomed Google's participation in the initiative as "an important milestone".