Praj Industries, an industrial biotechnology company, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) to develop a certification framework and conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) derived from Indian sugarcane feedstock. The initiative supports India’s SAF blending targets of 1 percent by 2027 and 2 percent by 2028.
The collaboration aims to determine the Carbon Intensity (CI) of sugarcane-based SAF produced via the Ethanol-to-Jet (ETJ) pathway. CI, measured in grams of CO₂ equivalent per megajoule (gCO₂e/MJ), is a key indicator of emissions reduction in comparison to conventional jet fuel. The outcome is expected to inform policy and enable wider SAF adoption in the country.
As part of the agreement, the three parties will define a certification methodology tailored for India while aligning with international sustainability standards, including the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) under the CORSIA framework.
“India has immense potential to become a key player in sustainable aviation fuel. This collaboration leverages scientific rigor and global frameworks to ensure our SAF solutions meet the highest standards,” said Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries.
“Measurements and certifications are key building blocks in any market. Developing the SAF market in India will be accelerated and its global acceptance will be facilitated by progress in these areas that is tailored to Indian conditions. Through this MoU, we aim to ensure that SAF from India can contribute to the height of its full potential to global decarbonization goals,” stated Marie Owens Thomsen, SVP Sustainability and Chief Economist at IATA.
“India’s record success globally via GOI’s Ethanol Blending Programme has showcased the sugar industry’s immense potential, and one of the best possible demonstrations of our capacity will be to become the single largest supplier of one of Asia’s lowest carbon-intensive NextGen biofuels like SAF—ensuring a truly just energy transition,” said Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA.
Praj has previously produced SAF from domestic feedstock in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. and AirAsia India. The company also operates India’s first integrated SAF demonstration plant at its R&D facility, Praj Matrix, in Pune.
Praj Industries is an Indian industrial biotechnology company specializing in environment, energy, and agri-process industries. Its technology platforms Bio-Mobility and Bio-Prism support production of renewable transportation fuels, chemicals, and materials. Headquartered in Pune, Praj serves over 1,000 customers across more than 100 countries. The company is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges of India.