Holland America Line has announced the start of a long-term biofuel test on its flagship MS Rotterdam, using 100 percent low-carbon biofuel while sailing in the Norwegian World Heritage fjords.
Biofuel is based on raw materials certified as 100 percent organic waste or residual products, with no risk of changing land use or deforestation, and which does not compete with food production. Biofuel is produced from waste fats, oils and greases left over from raw material processing, and is associated with minimal emissions during production. This results in a very low carbon intensity, with an estimated emission reduction of 86 percent compared to marine gas oil (MGO).
This is what the cruise company writes in a press release.
– Innovative way of meeting the environmental challenges
The ship bunkered biofuel before leaving the port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands on April 27, 2024, and will use low-carbon oil from organic waste or residual products certified under the EU Renewables Directive for one of its four engines while in the fjords.
– Holland America Line is committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, and we are pleased to be able to demonstrate a next-generation fuel source that can help us achieve the goal of net zero emissions, says Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line in the announcement.
– Converting things like food waste into fuel is an innovative way of meeting environmental challenges, and we thank the Dutch government for its support, he continues.
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The first tests will take place on one of the ship’s four engines this month, with the potential to expand to more engines during the summer while the ship sails in the Norwegian World Heritage fjords.
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Holland America Line’s existing ships can run on biofuel without any changes to the engine or fuel structure. Holland America Line continues to work with companies to find ways to reduce emissions and develop alternative fuels and technologies.
– There is a need to look at all good alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the future, and we see biofuel as one of the alternatives which, with the right use and origin, will contribute to emission reductions, which we welcome. The Norwegian Maritime Directorate looks favorably on all measures taken by the industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, says Alf Tore, Acting Director of Shipping in the Norwegian Maritime Directorate.
Tags: Holland America Line starts pilot trials renewable fuel
