Jamaica Launches SAF Feasibility Study to Drive Cleaner Aviation and Climate Resilience

Jamaica has moved to advance cleaner aviation with the launch of a Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Feasibility Study aimed at reducing carbon emissions and strengthening climate resilience in the sector.

The study, managed by ICF Consulting, will deliver the first structured, evidence‑based assessment of Jamaica’s SAF potential

It will examine available feedstocks, existing energy and fuel infrastructure, aviation demand, export prospects, and the wider policy, regulatory and investment environment, while also addressing challenges of scale, cost and competitiveness.

The official launch was held on Tuesday (January 20) at the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) headquarters in Kingston.

Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Daryl Vaz, in delivering the keynote address, stated that the initiative marks the beginning of a national conversation on clean energy, Jamaica’s role in global aviation, and long‑term climate resilience.

He noted that the Study aligns with the Government’s national development priorities, particularly supporting the transition to a low‑carbon, climate‑resilient economy and the development of a modern, high‑performing transport and logistics ecosystem powered by clean energy.

Minister Vaz underscored that climate action is not optional for Jamaica, particularly as a small island developing state vulnerable to climate change.

He cited the impacts of Hurricanes Beryl (2024) and Melissa (2025) as stark reminders of the country’s exposure to climate risk.

He further noted that SAFs have the capacity to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions from aviation by up to 80 per cent.

“The focus on sustainable aviation fuels and other clean energy solutions is, therefore, timely and strategic,” he stated.

Consequently, Mr. Vaz emphasised that Jamaica must move decisively through policy alignment, targeted investments, and strategic partnerships.

He explained that sustainable aviation fuels can be produced from renewable and waste‑based materials, including used cooking oil, agricultural by‑products and other sustainable feedstocks, and can be utilised in existing aircraft and airport systems without modification.

The Minister said SAFs present opportunities for job creation, new green value chains, investment in agriculture and waste‑to‑energy initiatives, improved energy security, and enhanced climate resilience.

Mr. Vaz pointed out that the findings of the Study will, therefore, inform national decision‑making, unlock investment opportunities, and position Jamaica to benefit from emerging global carbon and clean‑energy markets.

For her part, Acting Director General of the JCAA, Nicole Morgan, stated that the launch represents more than the beginning of a technical exercise, describing it as a strategic moment of collaboration and inquiry.

“[This] initiative… reflects both an urgency of our global climate responsibilities and the opportunity before us as a nation,” she said.

Ms. Morgan noted that, from the JCAA’s perspective, the feasibility study is a natural extension of its role – not only as a regulator but also as a facilitator and advocate for safe, efficient, and forward‑looking aviation