ClassNK SAF Certification Scheme Fully Operational in Asia | Mariner News
Tokyo – ClassNK’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) certification scheme, ClassNK SCS, has officially entered full operation, marking a significant development for decarbonization efforts in the Asian aviation sector. This follows the issuance of its first certification, establishing a vital regional framework for the verification of SAF supply chains.
The scheme, which became Asia’s first to receive approval from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in October 2024, saw its inaugural certification granted by Nippon Kaiji Kentei Quality Assurance Ltd. (N3KQA) to lumber producer Kowanomori Co., Ltd. This initial certification demonstrates the practical application of ClassNK SCS, providing economic operators with a new, regionally tailored option for obtaining SAF certification.
For the maritime industry, ClassNK’s successful launch of an ICAO-approved SAF certification scheme underscores the expanding role of traditional maritime classification societies in the broader global push for sustainability across various transport sectors. This diversification highlights how expertise in assurance and verification can transcend specific modes of transport, creating new operational and commercial avenues.
The operationalization of ClassNK SCS is expected to accelerate the development of localized SAF supply chains across Asia. By offering a certification process “suited to regional circumstances,” the scheme can facilitate the production and distribution of SAF within the continent, potentially leveraging local feedstocks and production methods to meet demand. This regional focus is crucial for compliance with ICAO’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which mandates significant CO2 emission reductions from international flights.
The availability of a robust, ICAO-approved regional certification mechanism like ClassNK SCS is essential for SAF to be recognized as a CORSIA Eligible Fuel (CEF). Applications for certification under the scheme are being accepted on an ongoing basis.
