From Waste Stream to Aviation Decarbonization Asset: Opportunities and Challenges of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME)–Based HEFA Sustainable Aviation Fuel Under ICAO CORSIA

This research examines the potential of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) as a feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) based on HEFA within the framework of ICAO CORSIA. The background is the need for decarbonization of the global aviation sector, which relies on liquid fuels, as well as the importance of life cycle assessment (LCA) for emission reduction claims. Through a qualitative approach based on literature review and policy documents, this study maps the opportunities and challenges of POME as a low-emission value residue. Findings indicate that the recognition of a default emission value of 18.1 gCO₂e/MJ by ICAO provides a carbon accounting advantage and strategic opportunity for Indonesia as a supplier of residue-based SAF. However, the main challenges include supply variability, MRV integrity, HEFA infrastructure readiness, as well as policy coordination and trade classification. The implication is that the success of POME-SAF scaling heavily depends on credible traceability systems, certification, and governance.