Cruising biofuel tests completed

Volendam was the cruise ship that tested 100% biofuel use, originating from feedstocks. The trial took place while in Rotterdam port, for a period of 20 consecutive days.

 

According to the GoodFuels, results indicated that use of biofuel registered a 78% decrease in CO2 emissions. The trial was among the very first live tests on working cruise ships.

Holland America Line’s President Gus Antorcha declared:

“We were excited to have this opportunity to test a next-generation fuel resource on a Holland America Line ship, and we are very encouraged by the results.

“As part of our commitment to sustainability, we have always looked for cutting-edge solutions to environmental challenges that will help us meet Carnival Corporation’s sustainability goals over the coming decades.”

Dirk Kronemeijer, GoodFuels founder and CEO, added:

“Marine biofuel is already the biggest low carbon marine fuel in the world and we expect usage to rise sharply to 10% of total volume by 2030.”

Carnival Corporation’s goal is to reach a 40% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, extend its alternative fuels strategy programme with liquefied gas and battery use, boost biofuel alternatives and reduce particle air emissions by half until 2030. Moreover, net carbon neutral operations are targeted by 2050.

Ricardo Opperman, managing director of Wartsila, explained:

“Our extensive work in testing alternative marine fuels is a central part of our efforts to shape viable decarbonisation options for our customers.

“We are continuously developing our engine technology to accept and retain operational and environmental efficiency levels with various future fuels, including biofuels.

These sea trials with 100% biofuel will be especially important — for Carnival Corporation, for Goodfuels, for Wärtsilä, and for the industry as a whole.”

Aida, another Carnival Corporation owned brand, has also recently partnered with Goodfuels for soon-to-begin biofuel testing aboard of Aidaprima cruise ship.

 

source: travelweekly.co.uk