Aviation Greenwashing Fact Sheet - Synthetic Electro-fuels
Scientific Reports
Grades9, 10, 11, 12Science, Economics
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Stay Grounded
What it is
- This fact sheet debunks common greenwashing techniques in the aviation industry related to synthetic electro-fuels.
Teaching tips
Positives
- This is a relatively new technology, so many students will be learning about it for the first time.
- The two infographics bring the data to life.
Prerequisites
- Synthetic electro-fuels face similar problems as electric flight and hydrogen flight. This process simply uses too much electricity that could be used to decarbonize other sectors like transportation and buildings.
- This is part of a series of greenwashing fact sheets from Stay Grounded.
- Stay Grounded is a Europe-based network of groups aiming to reduce emissions from aviation.
Differentiation & Implementation
- In English class, students could research different airlines like United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, Emirates, Southwest, or EasyJet. Groups of students could review their marketing materials related to synthetic electro-fuels to see if the companies are greenwashing or not.
- Science classes could read and discuss this fact sheet after learning about the Fischer-Tropsch process.
- You could also share this video that explains greenwashing and how to see through greenwashing.
- Other greenwashing fact sheets from Stay Grounded include efficiency improvements, electric flight, hydrogen flight, and biofuels.
From the scientist review
The resource underscores e-fuels and how it can decarbonize non-CO2 emissions in the aviation industry. It is insightful to note that its application can increase NOx levels in the atmosphere. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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