30 May 2023

Co-Founders of Avioxx Unite at the Innovation Zero Conference, Spearheading Sustainable Aviation Fuel

In a significant development, the co-founders of Avioxx, Chris Hancock, serial tech founder and Dr Steve Wilkinson, a well-known and respected Chem Eng academic, converged at the highly acclaimed Innovation Zero Conference, marking an important milestone for Avioxx and the wider sustainable aviation fuel sector.

With an unwavering commitment to revolutionising the aviation industry through eco-friendly solutions, innovation, and their combined expertise in chemical engineering and entrepreneurship, their presence at this conference exemplified their dedication to driving positive change.

The Innovation Zero Conference, hosted at London Olympia on the 24th and 25th of May, provided an ideal platform for the co-founders to gain valuable insights, establish connections with industry leaders, and further solidify their commitment to a sustainable future.

A Meeting of Leading Chemical Engineering Expertise and Talented Entrepreneurial Minds

Chris Hancock, a technology company founder and executive, having established multiple award-winning technology companies and Steve Wilkinson (formerly Prof. of Chem Eng., M.A. (Cantab), Ph.D. (I.C. London), M.I.Chem.E., C.Eng.) one of the UK’s leading chemical engineering minds were brought together through their profound passion for combating climate change and transforming the aviation sector using their complementary skill sets.

This prestigious and inaugural gathering provided a focus for innovation and sustainability across the private sectors, government, and academic areas.

It attracted prominent industry experts from around the globe. Notably, a pivotal discussion on the transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) held centre stage and featured influential figures such as Holly Boyd-Boland, VP Corporate Development at Virgin Atlantic, John Holland-Kaye, CEO of Heathrow Airport, and Victoria Tozer-Pennington, Editor-in-Chief of Aviation News.

This convergence of the UKs leading brains in chemical engineering, entrepreneurship, and aviation underscored the significance of the conference and its potential to drive transformative change.

The Significance of SAF Fuel

At the core of the Innovation Zero conference was a captivating discourse on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and its pivotal role in achieving net-zero emissions. The speakers emphasised the pressing need for viable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels in the aviation industry, which bears a significant responsibility for global greenhouse gas emissions.

SAF, derived from renewable resources such as waste, algae, or plant oils, represents a breakthrough solution in reducing aviation's carbon footprint. The discussions highlighted recent advancements in SAF production and successful implementation in various flight tests, showcasing the immense potential for SAF to contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation sector.

The Importance of Achieving Net Zero

Throughout the conference, the concept of achieving net-zero emissions resonated across discussions, panels, and presentations. Attendees were reminded of the imperative to transition to sustainable practices and technologies across all industries, with aviation serving as a crucial focus.

Net-zero emissions, achieved when greenhouse gas emissions are balanced by their removal from the environment, stand as a transformative milestone in combating climate change.

Such a momentous goal necessitates collaboration, innovation, and a collective commitment from all stakeholders. The conference inspired Avioxx to redouble is efforts and ensure that they play a significant role in the global endeavour to achieve net-zero emissions within the aviation industry through the application of their extensive knowledge and experience.

Solidifying Commitment to a Sustainable Future

In addition to the enriching talks and presentations, the Innovation Zero Conference provided Avioxx with invaluable networking opportunities among like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential partners.

Engaging in meaningful conversations, exchanging ideas, and establishing the groundwork for future collaborations allowed the co-founders to solidify their commitment to a sustainable future.

The conference not only validated their belief in Avioxx's immense potential but also reaffirmed their unwavering dedication to sustainable aviation. Equipped with a clearer roadmap and an expanded network, the co-founders returned from the conference with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to make a significant impact on the aviation industry.

We look forward to our attendance and participation at the conference in 2024.