Paper short abstract:

This study examine the global relation among actors and non-actors in the process of the transition to the aviation biofuel (biojet) by actor-network-theory. The purpose is to visualize the global network of RD&D of biojet including Japan and indicate the key triggers for the transition to biojet.

Paper long abstract:

This study examine the relation among actors and non-actors in the process of the transition to the aviation biofuel (biojet-fuel) by actor-network-theory. The conventional aviation fuel is mainly kerosene based on fossil fuel. The number of public who board the airplane in the world is expected to increase more and more. Whereas, the fossil fuel will be in danger of running out in the future. In addition the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has shown an aim to reduce 50% of CO2 emission by the biofuel and the radical technology in the aviation industry by 2050. Accordingly RD&D of biojet-fuel is important for both environmental issue and energy security. The varieties of actors such as airlines, aircraft manufacturers, oil industries, biofuel manufactures, governments and farmers have connected across a country, cooperated and struggled the RD&D of biojet-fuel.

This study analyze the relation between such actors and non-actors which are subsidies, regulation, technologies, standard and economic aspect, considering the invisible public viewpoint on the face of its relation.

In Japan the initiative for introduction of biojet-fuel in 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic had been established from 2014 to 2015. This initiative was the space and a non-actor where the actors connected. This study visualize the global network of RD&D of biojet-fuel including Japan and indicate the key triggers for the transition to biojet-fuel.

Such research of the global space by actor-network-theory is very few in the STS literature. The findings of this study could be contributed to the STS literature.