United airlines purchases stake in fulcrum bioenergy with $30 million investment

United Airlines has made a historic $30 million equity investment in Fulcrum BioEnergy, a U.S.-based alternative fuels developer. The investment is the largest by a U.S. airline in alternative fuels and will support the development and commercialization of low-cost sustainable aviation biofuel made from municipal solid waste. United and Fulcrum have also entered into an agreement to jointly develop up to five projects near United’s hubs, with the potential to produce up to 180 million gallons of fuel annually.

Fulcrum’s technology converts household trash into renewable jet fuel, reducing lifecycle carbon emissions by over 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. United has also negotiated a long-term supply agreement with Fulcrum, aiming to purchase at least 90 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel per year for a minimum of ten years at competitive prices. This investment is a part of United’s ongoing commitment to sustainable aviation biofuels and reducing its carbon footprint.