NFL Milestone: 49ers and United Airlines Unveil SAF Pilot Project to Cut Carbon Emissions

In a groundbreaking move, United and the San Francisco 49ers have revealed that the team is the NFL's first to invest in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). As part of this initiative, the 49ers have purchased enough SAF to offset their game-related flights on United from San Francisco to Los Angeles this Sunday, marking a significant step toward reducing emissions.

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49ers lead the NFL with historic SAF investment, partnering with United to Pioneer sustainable aviation

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) offers a powerful alternative to traditional jet fuel, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% over its lifecycle, from production to consumption. Made from renewable materials instead of oil, SAF represents a significant leap toward cleaner aviation. United Airlines' SAF has been independently certified for meeting rigorous sustainability standards, including reduced carbon intensity.

United Airlines was the first to set a goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, without relying on voluntary carbon offsets. As a leader in SAF adoption, United purchased more sustainable fuel than any other U.S. airline in 2023. The airline has implemented SAF blends at five airports in the U.S. and Europe, including San Francisco International Airport, among the highest number of locations for any U.S. carrier.

"SAF has the potential to be a powerful tool to help reduce carbon emissions from flying, but the industry is still in its infancy, supply is limited, and most people don't know what it is," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "We're proud to partner with like-minded organizations like the 49ers to demonstrate and elevate to a broader audience why it's important to support real solutions like SAF." (via: AJOT)

The 49ers are renowned for their commitment to community and environmental efforts in San Francisco. Levi's Stadium proudly became the first professional football stadium in the U.S. to earn LEED Gold certification, and its solar panels generate sufficient energy to power every 49ers home game. United Airlines, a key partner in the 49ers' "Faithful to the Planet" initiative, has been instrumental in supporting this charitable project. Together with other corporate partners, the initiative funds ocean pollution reduction programs and tree planting and protection efforts.

"We are thrilled to join United's Eco-Skies Alliance, and take this important step towards reducing our carbon footprint," said Brent Schoeb, Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer for the 49ers. "As the first NFL team to invest in SAF, this is a meaningful part of our commitment to more sustainable practices, and we're grateful to United for leading the way in this space."

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