Sustainable jet fuel from municipal solid waste–Investigation of carbon negativity and affordability claims
Lingyun Zhang, Jumoke Oladejo, Ayotunde Dawodu, Luming Yang, Yang Xiao
Abstract
Addressing the challenges posed by municipal solid waste (MSW) and alternative aviation fuel is crucial for promoting circular economy and achieving carbon neutrality aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. While most studies in this field have focused on catalyst development for MSW-to-jet fuel conversion, this study investigates the environmental and economic performance of sustainable aviation fuels derived from MSW. Life cycle emissions for six conversion pathways were estimated to be 1187–9694 kg CO2 eq/t jet fuel. Fischer-Tropsch (FT) and Plasma FT synthesis emerged as promising options due to their lower greenhouse gas emissions (∼2000 kg CO2eq/t jet fuel) and high net present value (∼$859 million). Furthermore, Monte Carlo simulations and sensitivity analysis quantified the potential outcomes for net present value and carbon footprints. This study also discussed social acceptance, policy implications and real-world limitations for strategic decision-making and advancing the transition to alternative aviation fuels.