Few innovations present as much promise for strengthening America’s energy future and supporting farmers as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). More than a simple alternative to conventional jet fuel, SAF provides a strategic opportunity to bolster U.S. energy and technology leadership, reinforce rural economies, and drive broad-based economic growth. US policy should prioritize domestic SAF production that benefits US farmers and businesses and promotes technology leadership and American ingenuity.
BioVeritas, a SAF manufacturer in Texas, has created a new process for manufacturing SAF and the company might just be the innovator the industry needs. The BioVeritas Process for SAF is able to do things existing processes can’t but the most important part is it can finally make SAF affordable and overcome the challenges that keep SAF from being mainstream.
A Game-Changer for American Farmers
From corn stover to soybean residues and even livestock manure, many agricultural byproducts can be converted into high-value jet fuel. This fresh revenue stream lowers farmers’ dependence on unpredictable commodity markets and helps keep resources circulating in local communities.
“Sustainable Aviation Fuel allows us to tap into materials that often go to waste or lack other high-value uses,” said David Austgen, CEO of BioVeritas. “When you can turn corn husks and soybean residues into a viable fuel, you’re not only reducing waste—you’re empowering rural communities to lead the next wave of energy innovation.”
Such efforts have the potential to create thousands of new jobs. Current projections estimate the SAF industry could generate over 153,000 direct jobs, plus another 250,000 indirect jobs, in rural regions that are often overlooked by traditional industries. This promise of long-term, well-paying employment could stabilize local economies and reinvigorate communities that rely heavily on agriculture.
Strengthening U.S. Energy Security
The American aviation industry pumps more than $1.9 trillion into the economy each year and employs millions. Yet its reliance on petroleum-based fuel invites market volatility and heightens exposure to geopolitical risks. By scaling up SAF domestically, the U.S. can diversify its energy supply, reduce price volatility, and establish a more secure energy future.
“Securing America’s energy future isn’t just about pumping more oil—it’s about expanding the range of solutions at our disposal,” Austgen said. “At BioVeritas, our process broadens the array of feedstocks available for SAF production, so we aren’t pinned to any one resource. That’s good for both national security and economic resilience.”
Unlike conventional jet fuel, which tracks closely with crude oil prices, SAF can draw from a variety of feedstocks grown or collected in the United States. This approach keeps more control in domestic hands and helps mitigate the impact of global oil market fluctuations.
A Bipartisan Opportunity
SAF represents a rare issue with strong support across party lines. Republicans see it as a method for boosting jobs and energy independence in rural America, while Democrats value its climate benefits and reduced carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based fuels.
Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) has been an outspoken advocate. “Sustainable aviation fuel is a promising alternative fuel source that can provide new markets for farmers while increasing our domestic energy production and security,” he said. Efforts by the SAF Caucus further highlight the technology’s wide-ranging appeal.
Curbing Imported Feedstocks
While used cooking oil (UCO) has been a common SAF feedstock, much of it is imported—particularly from China—raising doubts about sustainability and transparency. The Treasury Department recently flagged foreign UCO for failing to meet transparency standards, leading to its disqualification from certain tax credits. This move underscores the need to safeguard U.S. production.
By prioritizing homegrown feedstocks—corn, soybeans, agricultural residues, and municipal waste—SAF can become a distinctly American solution. Such an approach keeps critical parts of the supply chain on U.S. soil, where oversight is more reliable and economic benefits flow directly to domestic farmers.
The Role of Government and Private Industry
In the American tradition of innovation, the private sector remains the driving force behind new technologies, and SAF is no exception. Companies like BioVeritas lead the charge in developing advanced processes that maximize feedstock flexibility and reduce production costs. Yet policymakers have a supporting role to play, particularly in providing research grants, funding pilot programs, and establishing a transparent, stable regulatory environment.
“When you look at the country’s history of technological leadership—whether in aviation or pharmaceuticals—a lot of it was propelled by public-private partnerships,” said Austgen. “Government doesn’t have to do the heavy lifting, but supportive funding for R&D can jumpstart new breakthroughs, give the US a technological lead over countries like China, and lower risks for private investors.”
Charting a Path Forward
As SAF production ramps up, policymakers can strengthen its trajectory by taking the following steps:
Prioritize American-Made SAF
Incentives, tax credits, and grant programs should clearly favor domestic feedstocks and manufacturers.
Expand R&D Support
Focus on innovative refining techniques, next-generation feedstocks, and cost-reduction strategies that drive industry-wide progress.
Maintain Rural Wealth
Keep newly created jobs and economic gains in the communities supplying the raw materials, preventing wealth from shifting overseas.
Foster Bipartisan Cooperation
Sustain momentum from the SAF Caucus and other cross-party alliances to ensure stable, long-term legislative support.
A Vision for America’s Future
Sustainable Aviation Fuel is more than a sustainable energy option—it’s a powerful tool for revitalizing rural America, creating steady jobs, and enhancing energy security. By harnessing domestic resources and American ingenuity, the United States can assume a leadership role that benefits not only the environment, but also the hardworking farmers who form the backbone of the economy.
“This is a chance for our country to build a legacy of energy independence and agricultural strength,” Austgen concluded. “If we nurture SAF in the right way—by keeping it local and supporting the private sector’s leadership—we’ll position America at the forefront of next-generation aviation fuel. And that’s good for everyone.”
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