• Japan Airlines and six partners validate Scope 3 environmental value trading to promote SAF adoption
• Successful trades and third-party verification confirm feasibility of the new platform
• Phase 2 to expand participation and prepare for full-scale implementation

Japan Airlines, in partnership with ITOCHU Corporation, ENEOS Corporation, NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, Mizuho Bank, Mizuho Research & Technologies, and Narita International Airport Corporation, has successfully completed Phase 1 of a groundbreaking initiative to advance sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) use through Scope 3 environmental value trading.

Launched in August 2024, the project tested a new trading platform over an eight-month period at Narita Airport. Participating companies registered trading information, matched terms, signed bilateral contracts, and completed verified transactions. The entire process was evaluated by third-party organization ClassNK, confirming its transparency and effectiveness.

RELATED ARTICLE: Japan Airlines Enters into New Fuel Sales Agreement with Gevo for 5.3 Million Gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Per Year Over Five Years

“Through demonstration tests conducted with six companies, we have recognized once again that environmental value trading is a mechanism that contributes to the decarbonization of aviation,” said Mitsuko Tottori, President & Group CEO of Japan Airlines. “The JAL Group will continue to collaborate with each company to promote understanding and support wider adoption.”

“The confirmation of the scheme’s effectiveness through this demonstration test marks a significant step forward,” said Keita Ishii, President & COO of ITOCHU. “We will continue collaborating with leading partners to help build a circular economy.”

ENEOS, which conducted a full-cycle demonstration from SAF procurement to sale, affirmed the approach’s potential. “We will continue to promote the use of SAF and Scope 3 environmental attributes to contribute to GHG reduction in the aviation industry,” said President Atsuji Yamaguchi.

ClassNK validated the credibility of the scheme and emphasized its market potential: “Trading the environmental value of Scope 3 emissions is an extremely effective means of promoting greater use of SAF,” said President & CEO Hayato Suga.

Phase 2 will expand the number of participants, enhance awareness of Scope 3 environmental value, and explore strategies for the platform’s full-scale social implementation. The goal is to foster a next-generation aviation network built around decarbonization and cross-industry collaboration.

Follow ESG News on LinkedIn