We had the pleasure to collaborate with ISTAT for their fourth Sustainability Symposium on April 29, hosted by Avolon in Dublin.
The day began with opening remarks from Bryson P. Monteleone, ISTAT and impact Board member and Andy Cronin, followed by a compelling keynote from Brian Moran, who introduced CASCADE—Boeing’s forecasting tool on emission reduction—and emphasized the critical role of the energy sector in scaling SAF production.
🏆 GA Telesis was honored with the ISTAT Sustainability Award for its bold SAF goals and alignment with the UN SDGs.
Here some highlights from the panel discussions:
🏛️ Policy Challenges in Sustainable Aviation:
Moderated by Paul Sheridan, Donal Handley and Thomas Fowler examined regulatory complexities, including the EU Omnibus proposal, EU Taxonomy, and the SAF mandate. The discussion called for better regulatory alignment and tailored approaches, and considered the role of EU ETS funds in scaling SAF.
📊 Macroeconomic Trends & Aircraft Values:
Led by Jim Morrison, expert speakers Richard Evans, Ben Chapman, and Stephen Rooney focused on robust air travel demand despite economic uncertainty, supply chain impacts on fleet renewal, and how macroeconomic forces influence sustainability investments. Topics also included climate risks like fuel price volatility and residual value concerns.
🛫 Interactive Discussion: Financing Future Technologies:
Marc Tembleque Vilalta moderated a session with Sandrine Lacorre and Hal Calamvokis exploring engine innovation, including CFM International’s RISE program for fuel and emissions reduction. The discussion also covered green hydrogen development and public acceptance of emerging engine designs.
🔋 SAF & Aircraft Technology Innovations:
Moderated by Michael Rurik Halaby, FRAeS, Daniel Da Silva, Julien Manhes, and Ivor van Dartel showcased next-generation aircraft concepts—from JetZero’s aerodynamic efficiencies to VÆRIDION’s electric regional aircraft. Airbus emphasized the importance of SAF feedstock clarity, demand stimulation, and robust offsetting frameworks.
💵 Strategies for Sustainability-Linked Loans & Leases:
Dr. Ulrike Ziegler 🇺🇦, Chairwoman of the Board of impact, led a discussion with Jean Chedeville, Kaiori Creed, Emma Giddings, and Gordon Grant on the rising significance of sustainability- and transition-linked finance, emphasizing the need for transparent metrics, regulatory consistency, and solutions to bridge the SAF financing gap.
The ISTAT Sustainability Symposium 2025 underscored the immense challenges ahead but also highlighted the unwavering commitment and innovative spirit driving the decarbonization of the aviation industry. It was an exceptional day of learning, connecting, and a renewed sense of purpose in navigating this complex but crucial journey.
