Let’s face it: Flying is ridiculously polluting! A fact an increasing number of airline carriers seem to take seriously, and which has encouraged many to begin tests with biofuel (an initiative which not only benefits the atmosphere but also the companies’ eco friendly image).
On February 24, Virgin did the first ever test-flight of a renewable fuel with a commercial jet. The Boeing 747 flew from London to Amsterdam on a mixture of 80 percent conventional jet fuel and 20 percent biofuel made from oil from babassu- and coconuts. Virgin boss Richard Branson proclaims that planes are capable of flying on up to 40 percent biofuel, which primarily is derived from corn, vegetables or sugar.
It all sounds very good, but critical voices are concerned that an increasing demand for biofuel will raise food prices...However, Virgin states that the company only uses sustainable fuel sources that do not compete with food or fresh water resources.
Author David Rich Momondo