UECC Embraces Sustainable Biofuel for Greener Shipping Solutions

• United European Car Carriers (UECC) has successfully bunkered sustainable biofuel on a time-chartered vessel in collaboration with GoodFuels and NYK.
• GoodFuels delivered a B30 blend of biofuel and VLSFO to the m/v Emerald Leader, significantly reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%.
• This initiative represents a major step in UECC’s commitment to sustainability and cleaner transportation options in the shipping industry.
• The seamless integration of biofuels into existing infrastructure positions them as a practical solution for decarbonizing maritime operations.

In a significant move towards sustainability, United European Car Carriers (UECC), a Norwegian provider of shortsea RoRo transportation, has successfully bunkered sustainable biofuel on a time-chartered vessel. This initiative was made possible through collaboration with Dutch biofuel supplier GoodFuels and vessel owner NYK, as reported by Offshore Energy.

Biofuel Delivery and Collaboration

On May 27, 2023, GoodFuels delivered a blend of B30, consisting of 470 tonnes of Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and sustainable biofuel, to the vehicle carrier m/v Emerald Leader at the port of Vlissingen, Netherlands. NYK, a joint owner of UECC, played a crucial role by providing technical support throughout the operation and collaborating closely with UECC to monitor the biofuel’s performance on the vessel.

Environmental Impact of Biofuel

GoodFuels highlights that its biofuel can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90% when compared to conventional fossil fuels. The fuel is derived from renewable and sustainable feedstocks, which are certified as 100% waste or residue. This ensures that its production does not compete with food production or contribute to deforestation, reinforcing the environmental integrity of the fuel used.

Commitment to Sustainability

Daniel Gent, Energy and Sustainability Manager for UECC, remarked, “This momentous delivery of next-generation biofuel represents another significant step forward in our sustainability journey.” He expressed pride in partnering with GoodFuels and NYK, emphasizing UECC’s commitment to offering its customers innovative and environmentally friendly solutions. By bunkering biofuel on a UECC time-chartered vessel for the first time, the company showcases its dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and providing cleaner transportation options.

Bernard van Haeringen, Commercial Manager at GoodFuels, also expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with UECC and NYK to deliver our advanced sustainable biofuel for the first time to m/v Emerald Leader.” He noted that this partnership demonstrates a collective commitment to combatting climate change and accelerating the energy transition within the shipping industry. Van Haeringen believes that biofuels will play a crucial role in decarbonizing the maritime sector.

Future Prospects and Biofuel Integration

UECC anticipates that the implementation of sustainable biofuel on the Emerald Leader, which operates along its North-South Trade route connecting the Eastern Mediterranean with Northern Europe, will lead to a significant reduction in the carbon intensity of its operations.

Biofuels have emerged as a viable option for decarbonizing the shipping industry due to their considerable environmental benefits and the potential for immediate implementation. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, biofuels are sourced from renewable materials such as organic waste, algae, or plant oils. They can be blended with or directly replace conventional marine fuels without necessitating extensive modifications to existing ship engines or infrastructure. This seamless integration positions biofuels as a practical and readily available solution for decreasing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping sector.

Through initiatives like these, UECC is paving the way for a more sustainable future in maritime transportation, contributing to broader efforts to combat climate change and promote environmentally responsible practices within the industry.