Star Tribune publishes FMR, Forever Green commentary on sustainable jet fuel
The piece makes the case for winter-hardy oilseeds as the most impactful source of sustainable aviation fuel.
FMR’s message about sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — that it presents a remarkable opportunity to make Minnesota’s waters cleaner and healthier if done responsibly — continues to make headlines.
On April 7, the Minnesota Star Tribune published a commentary by FMR Executive Director Whitney Clark and Forever Green Co-Director Dr. Nick Jordan laying out the case for winter-hardy oilseeds as the most impactful, most sustainable source for new jet fuel.
“If businesses and policymakers want to champion SAF as truly sustainable, they need to prioritize investments in feedstocks that effectively address our most pressing environmental challenges,” the commentary reads.
Read the full, published commentary at the Star Tribune.
How SAF can help us get to cleaner water
FMR's involvement in sustainable aviation fuel is all about the once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a healthier river for all communities: people, plants and animals. We know winter-hardy oilseeds can do the job.
These crops will help us cover the big brown spot — which is the biggest source of pollution to the Mississippi River (and many of Minnesota's waters). Our Putting Down Roots report shows that having these oilseeds on even just one-quarter of the state's existing cropland can have a tangible impact on some of our most pressing water quality crises, including nitrate and sediment pollution.
We also know they make safe, effective jet fuel. Last fall, the first commercial flight in North America, powered in part by winter oilseeds-based fuel, flew from MSP Airport to New York.
As the commentary notes, decision-makers must recognize and take advantage of this opportunity by enacting the right policies, funding and incentives.
If we do this right, Whitney and Nick explain, Minnesota can have “lower aviation emissions, cleaner water, healthier farms and more vibrant agricultural communities, all in one fell swoop.”
Thank you, advocates and donors
We’re thrilled to see this innovative and potentially high-impact approach to reducing river pollution stepping into the spotlight. Thank you to all the members and River Guardians who have steadfastly supported FMR and advocated for the need for Forever Green clean-water crops like winter-hardy oilseeds.