Aviation Greenwashing Fact Sheet - Synthetic Electro-fuels
Provided by: Stay Grounded|Published on: April 27, 2021|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Scientific Reports
Subjects: Science, Economics
Authors: Stay Grounded
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 →
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 →
Synopsis
- This fact sheet debunks common greenwashing techniques in the aviation industry related to synthetic electro-fuels.
Teaching Materials
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.
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.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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