United Airlines is taking a major step towards reducing its carbon footprint by partnering with Twelve, a company redefining the future of sustainable aviation. Twelve’s groundbreaking technology, which serves as an industrial alternative to photosynthesis, allows the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This innovative approach provides a cleaner, more eco-friendly fuel option for the aviation industry, and United Airlines’ new collaboration with Twelve will play a key role in driving the sector’s sustainability efforts.
This partnership is a significant milestone in United Airlines’ commitment to sustainability and follows the company’s long-term goals to reduce its environmental impact. The agreement includes the delivery of 260 million gallons of SAF, one of the largest SAF deals ever signed. This partnership marks a crucial development in reducing United’s carbon emissions and aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century.
Twelve’s Role in Decarbonizing Aviation
The agreement between United Airlines and Twelve spans 14 years and reflects the growing demand for SAF in the aviation sector. SAF has the potential to reduce emissions by up to 90% over its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel, making it an essential element in achieving long-term sustainability within the aviation industry. By incorporating SAF into its operations, United Airlines is helping lead the way in transitioning to cleaner, more sustainable air travel.
This collaboration not only highlights the increasing recognition of Twelve’s unique technology but also underscores the airline industry’s commitment to adopting greener alternatives. SAF plays a crucial role in meeting sustainability targets set by airlines worldwide, and this partnership reinforces the strategic importance of SAF in reducing the aviation sector’s environmental impact.
Investing in the Future of Fuel
Twelve’s rapid growth is further supported by a recent investment from the Sustainable Flight Fund, following the company’s successful funding round. These funds are being used to develop Twelve’s first SAF production facility, AirPlant™ One, located in Moses Lake, Washington. Set to begin operations later this year, the facility will initially produce 50,000 gallons of SAF annually, marking an important step in scaling up the production of low-carbon aviation fuels to meet growing demand.
Once fully operational, the AirPlant™ One facility will contribute significantly to reducing lifecycle emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional jet fuel. This state-of-the-art facility will be instrumental in meeting the rising demand for alternative fuel solutions in aviation, enabling airlines like United to further reduce their carbon footprint and strengthen their environmental sustainability efforts.
A Long-Term Commitment to Sustainability
The partnership with United Airlines is just one example of Twelve’s expanding reach within the global aviation industry. The 14-year contract to supply 260 million gallons of SAF demonstrates Twelve’s ability to scale its innovative technology to meet the growing demand for cleaner aviation fuels. The agreement will help United Airlines achieve its environmental targets and further its commitment to decarbonizing its operations.
The Sustainable Flight Fund, which has already secured over $200 million in investments, has played a key role in supporting Twelve’s mission. The fund has attracted contributions from numerous corporate partners who are eager to back breakthrough technologies that will help decarbonize air travel. This cross-sector collaboration is essential for driving forward the next generation of sustainable aviation technologies.
Expanding Beyond Aviation: A Vision for Global Sustainability
While Twelve’s work is currently focused on aviation, the company’s carbon transformation technology holds the potential to reshape other industries as well. Twelve’s proprietary Opus™ system converts CO2 and renewable energy into hydrocarbons, offering sustainable alternatives to fossil-based resources. These hydrocarbons can be used to produce not only sustainable aviation fuel but also chemicals and consumer goods, contributing to a broader reduction in global reliance on fossil fuels.
By diversifying its hydrocarbon production, Twelve is actively helping to build a more sustainable global economy. The company’s approach is reshaping industrial supply chains by providing alternatives to fossil-based resources, ensuring a cleaner, greener future across all sectors.
A Cleaner, Greener Aviation Future
As the aviation industry faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions, Twelve’s technology offers a vital solution. With its first SAF production facility set to begin operations, Twelve is positioning itself as a key player in the global movement toward more sustainable aviation. The company’s technology not only provides airlines like United with a cleaner fuel option but also has the potential to reduce emissions across multiple industries, demonstrating the broad impact of Twelve’s innovations.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative technology, Twelve is helping pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in aviation.
