Industry leader announces surprising fuel upgrade that could change how we fly

Yahoo! News - Apr 18th, 2025

Cosmo Energy Holdings, Japan's third-largest oil refiner, has commenced the production of sustainable aviation fuel at its Sakai refinery in Osaka. The company plans to produce 30,000 kiloliters annually by April, supplying to major Japanese airlines like Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways. This marks a significant development as it is the first domestically produced green fuel for airlines in Japan, made from cooking oil. Cosmo Energy collaborated with two other companies for this initiative but has not disclosed the pricing and volume details of the fuel.

The introduction of sustainable aviation fuel by Cosmo Energy is a critical step towards reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint, which makes up about 2% of global energy pollution. This initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and mitigate the adverse effects of air travel on public health and the environment. Globally, companies like LanzaJet and OXCCU are also contributing to the production of alternative fuels using different methodologies. As the world moves towards greener solutions, travelers are encouraged to support airlines using sustainable fuels and consider eco-friendly travel options, such as train travel or closer-to-home vacations, to further reduce their environmental impact.

Environmental Impact Green Technology Cosmo Energy Holdings Sustainable Aviation Fuel Japan Airlines All Nippon Airways Air Travel Pollution

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively covers Cosmo Energy Holdings' initiative to produce sustainable aviation fuel in Japan, providing accurate information about the company's plans and the environmental benefits of SAF. It is timely and relevant, given the global focus on reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry. However, the article could benefit from a more balanced perspective by including potential challenges and criticisms of SAF production. While the source quality is generally good, the article would be strengthened by more direct quotes from primary sources. The clarity and readability are strong, but the engagement could be enhanced with more interactive elements. Overall, the article is informative and relevant but could be improved with greater depth and transparency.

Accuracy

The article accurately reports on Cosmo Energy Holdings' initiative to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in Japan. The claim that Cosmo is the third-largest oil refiner in Japan and is beginning SAF production at its Sakai refinery is supported by multiple sources. The production target of 30,000 kiloliters per year and the collaboration with Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways are also verified. However, some details, such as the exact price and volume specifics, are not disclosed, which the article acknowledges. The environmental impact claims, such as the aviation industry's contribution to global energy pollution and the potential benefits of SAF, are consistent with recognized data.

Balance

The article presents a predominantly positive view of Cosmo Energy's SAF initiative, highlighting its environmental benefits and alignment with global aviation decarbonization goals. However, it does not extensively explore potential challenges or criticisms, such as the high cost of SAF or the feasibility of scaling production. Including perspectives from environmental experts or industry analysts could provide a more balanced view.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, making it easy to follow the main points about Cosmo Energy's SAF production. The language is straightforward, and the information is presented logically. However, the article could improve by organizing the content into more distinct sections or using subheadings to guide readers through different aspects of the story.

Source quality

The article references credible sources, such as Reuters, for its claims about Cosmo Energy's plans and industry context. However, it could benefit from more direct quotes or statements from Cosmo Energy representatives or industry experts to enhance credibility. The reliance on secondary sources like Reuters is common but could be supplemented with primary interviews or official statements.

Transparency

The article provides a general overview of Cosmo Energy's SAF initiative but lacks detailed explanations of the methodologies used to verify claims or any potential conflicts of interest. While it mentions the collaboration with other companies, it does not specify their roles or contributions. Greater transparency about the sources of information and any affiliations could improve trustworthiness.