After four years of searching, scientists have found a new plant-based aviation fuel that could significantly reduce the environmental impact of flying. The fuel is made from a type of mustard plant called Brassica carinata and could reduce carbon emissions by up to 68 percent, according to research from the University of Georgia (UGA).

The research, led by UGA scientist Puneet Dwivedi, shows that this sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) could be a “game-changer” in replacing petroleum. "Carinata-based SAF could help reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation sector while creating economic opportunities and improving the flow of ecosystem services across the southern region,” says Dwivedi. The Southeast Partnership for Advanced Renewables from Carinata, or SPARC, is a $15 million Bioenergy Coordinated Agricultural project funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information read this UGA Today article.