Environmental not-for-profit the Burnett Mary Regional Group is partnering with Idemitsu and J-Oil Mills in an initiative to produce sustainable biofuel for the Japanese aviation industry.

The scheme centres on establishing a commercial plantation of Pongamia (Millettia Pinnata), also known as native wisteria or Indian beech.

The consortium, which is receiving facilitation support from the Queensland Government, is another step towards the establishing a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, according to BMRG chief executive officer Sheila Charlesworth.

“Pongamia is nature positive – it not only gives more to nature than it takes out, its production will also create jobs,” said Ms Charlesworth.

A native plant to India and Northern Australia, Pongamia has a high yield of oil and can be grown on degraded, unproductive land, providing carbon sequestration and biodiversity benefits to landowners.

“Pongamia is an amazing plant. It allows normal neighbouring plant growth and promotes biodiversity through the establishment of habitat for birds and other wildlife,” Ms Charlesworth said.

“As a legume, the crop also raises nitrogen levels in the soil, increasing its fertility, and provides opportunities for mixed agriculture on the plantations.

“The shell and seed by-product of processing can also contribute to the creation of feed for livestock.”