<p>The transportation sector is a large contributor to climate change, accounting for about 28 percent of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Within that sector, aviation accounts for around 2 percent of carbon dioxide global emissions, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. </p><br/><p>Looking to reduce its carbon footprint, the aviation industry is seeking fuels from more renewable biological sources. At the <a href="https://forevergreen.umn.edu/" class="default">University of Minnesota’s Forever Green Initiative</a>, researchers are working to commercialize winter oilseed cover crops that can keep soil healthy and also be<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240924089384/en/First-Sustainable-Aviation-Fuel-SAF-Arrives-at-MSP-Airport" class="default"> turned into aviation fuel</a>.</p><br/><p>MPR News chief meteorologist Paul Huttner spoke with <a href="https://agronomy.cfans.umn.edu/people/mitch-hunter-0" class="default">Mitch Hunter</a>, co-director of the Forever Green Initiative and an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Minnesota.</p><br/><p><em>Click play on the audio player above to listen to this episode or subscribe to the Climate Cast podcast.</em></p>