Introduction

The inspiration for this blogspot was the publication of 'Will Sustainability Fly?' I felt that there should be a web space dedicated to a conversation about sustainability and how that huge topic is woven into our day-to-day 21st century lives. The original, notional topic, when the book was commissioned, was a narrow 'what and how' of alternative aviation fuels. The presumed audience: people working in aviation, fuels, and policy related to those two elements. But, the way things turned out, it became a much more interesting undertaking. I think that the project and the conversation should now include everyone. I think that it includes ... you.

What people are saying about the book ...

‘In this fascinating book, Walter Palmer confronts head-on the (some would say impossible) challenge of sustainability in commercial aviation. He identifies the keys, including new forms of aircraft, new sources of energy for fuel, and incentives for the needed research and development, including a price on carbon. It's a book for everyone concerned about our common future. My congratulations.’
Jim MacNeill, OC, Secretary General of the Brundtland World Commission on Environment and Development and chief architect and lead author of its 1987 report Our Common Future

‘Growing demand and growing emissions are not the only future available for aviation. While identified by many as the place where fossil fuels will reign uninterrupted, Palmer takes us on a different journey. He carefully identifies potential alternative fuel pathways and explores the stakeholders, personalities and policies that could mobilise change toward sustainability. For refreshing insights, and a potential solution, to the complex problem of aviation and sustainability, this book is a must read.’
Paul Parker, University of Waterloo, Canada

‘Palmer has done a tremendous job of capturing the critical nature of aviation and its sustainable future. … In this book, he has accurately and effectively portrayed the current status of renewable jet fuels and the complexities facing the commercialization efforts that the biofuels sector encounters in producing these new fuels. For the aviation industry to continue to grow and prosper over the next 20 years, all while meeting the emission reduction goals of ICAO and other emission reduction commitments, increased awareness by the traveling public, governments and militaries around the world is required. I think Walt has started this conversation in a big way I and look forward to the results of his work making a difference in the solutions that we will see in the coming years.’
John Plaza, Founder and CEO of Imperium Renewables; Commercial Pilot for 20 years with over 17,000 hours, Biofuel Entrepreneur for over 10 years