Parkland produces Canada’s first low-carbon aviation fuel at Burnaby Refinery

Parkland has announced the successful production of Canada’s first batch of low-carbon aviation fuel at its Burnaby Refinery. Supported by the Government of British Columbia, this marks a significant step towards providing a Canadian-made solution to reduce emissions in the aviation sector, drive economic growth, and support the low-carbon goals of both British Columbia and Canada.

“Parkland is thrilled to demonstrate its leadership and proven expertise at the Burnaby Refinery by becoming the first Company to produce low carbon aviation fuel in Canada,” said Ferio Pugliese, Senior Vice President at Parkland. “Thanks to the vision and skill of our team, the leadership of the Government of British Columbia and Air Canada, Canadians can see the possibility of flying with Canadian-made low carbon fuel. This pilot project demonstrates how constructive incentives can spur Canadian production of low carbon aviation fuel.”

How is low carbon aviation fuel produced?

Using existing infrastructure, Parkland’s Burnaby Refinery has successfully produced approximately 101,000 litres of low carbon aviation fuel by using non-food grade canola and tallow as core feedstocks. With appropriate certification across the full supply chain, low carbon aviation fuel (LCAF) could be classified as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This batch of fuel has been purchased by Air Canada. 

“I want to congratulate Parkland on this groundbreaking initiative that aligns with our government’s climate goals and the urgency in which we must address climate change,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “British Columbia leads the way in incentivising innovation to reduce emissions across many sectors, and Parkland continues to be an outstanding partner and role model for biofuel producers.”

Low carbon aviation fuel has lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than conventional jet fuel and can be used in existing aircraft without modification. Parkland’s Burnaby Refinery is the first company to produce this fuel in Canada. Through incentives and ongoing government support, this fuel can play an essential role in supporting Canada’s 2050 net-zero targets.