NextChem’s SAF strategy

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) technologies are advancing rapidly, though their readiness and cost-effectiveness vary widely.
Among the most mature and commercially viable options is the HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) process, which converts lipid-based feedstocks into SAF. This method, originally adapted from oil and gas refining, has its roots in renewable diesel production.
“Early renewable diesel plants were built at large scale,” said Marco Bonvini, fuels and chemicals licensing and business development director at NextChem.
“They relied heavily on first-generation feedstocks — agricultural products that could be produced in bulk, mirroring the conventional oil and gas supply chain.”

From large-scale plants to local waste streams

NextChem took a bold turn six to seven years ago, shifting its focus from first-generation inputs to second generation feedstocks, such as used cooking oil, animal fats and industrial waste from palm oil processing.
“Unlike agricultural feedstocks, waste materials are gathered locally and in fragmented ways,” Bonvini explained. “This means large...