As part of its rigorous decarbonisation objectives, Ocean Network Express (ONE) has successfully trialled the use of biofuel to power the MOL Experience.
The trial was completed on February 7 following bunkering at the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands in November 2020.
It was performed in collaboration with shipowner Mitsui OSK Lines and sustainable biofuel pioneer GoodFuels.
During this first trial, the sustainable biofuel was blended with conventional fossil fuels, enabling the vessel to make its Atlantic crossings between Europe and the USA.
“The success of the trial proves the viability of sustainable biofuels which will help ONE to meet its carbon reduction targets in 2030 and 2050 respectively,” a spokesperson said.
Biofuel is derived from renewable sources. The advanced biofuel used in the trial is made from waste oils such as used cooking oil. Biofuels are considered to be carbon-neutral because the carbon dioxide that is absorbed by the source of the biomass is equal to the carbon dioxide released when the fuel is burned, a statement explains.
“It has gained attention around the world as an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. GoodFuels’ sustainable biofuels are virtually free of sulphur oxides and deliver 80-90% “well-to-exhaust” C02 reduction versus fossil fuel equivalents.”
Biofuel is reported to be functionally equivalent to petroleum-derived marine fuels, and no modification is required to the engine or the fuel infrastructure.
GoodFuels only works with renewable feedstocks that cannot be used for any higher quality application or recycling and are therefore regarded as truly sustainable, the company adds.
ONE aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions (in gram/TEU-km) by 25% from its 2018 baseline by 2030, and by 50% by 2050.
