Holland
America Line is embarking on a groundbreaking journey with the launch of a
biofuel pilot program aboard its flagship, Rotterdam. Using 100 percent low
carbon intensity biofuel—which is derived from organic waste and residues— to
power one of its four engines, Rotterdam will navigate the pristine Norwegian
World Heritage Fjords. In doing so, it will showcase the potential alternative
fuel sources have to significantly mitigate the environmental impact of
maritime operations.
The vessel
bunkered the sustainable biofuel before departing from the Port of Rotterdam,
the Netherlands, on April 27, 2024, embarking on a voyage that spans the
stunning fjords. The biofuel, supplied by FincoEnergies and known as GoodFuels
MR1-100, is certified according to the EU Renewable Energy Directive and
promises an estimated 86 percent reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas
emissions in comparison to traditional petroleum-based fuel.
“Holland
America Line is committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and we are
excited to demonstrate a next-generation fuel source that can help us toward
our pursuit of net zero emissions,” said Gus Antorcha, president of
Holland America Line. “Converting items such as food waste into fuel is an
innovative way to meet environmental challenges and we thank the Dutch
government for its support.”
The initial phase
of this long-term biofuel test will involve operating one of the Rotterdam’s
four engines using the low carbon intensity oil during cruises throughout the
month of May. However, there is the potential to expand the trial to multiple
engines during the summer months, particularly when navigating through iconic
Norwegian fjords, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.
Eco-friendly cruise ship concept. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Elnur)
Biofuels, derived
from feedstocks that are certified to be 100 percent organic waste or residue,
offer a promising solution for reducing emissions without competing with food
production, contributing to deforestation or taking up space on land. Made from
leftover waste fats, oils and grease, biofuels’ production process is conducted
with minimal emissions. This makes for significantly lower carbon intensity
ratings compared to conventional marine gas oil (MGO), with an estimated 86
percent reduction in emissions compared to traditional fuel. What’s more, Holland
America’s existing ships are able to run using biofuels without having to
modify their engines or fuel structure.
“The
GoodFuels MR1-100 fits the existing practice in shipping where heavier fuels
are already used today” said Johannes Schurmann, Commercial Director
International Marine at FincoEnergies. “Together with our clients, we
optimize sustainability and cost of the biofuel, while not jeopardizing the
performance in the engine and fuel system.”
“There is a
need to look at all good alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the
future and we see biofuels as one of the alternatives that, with the right use
and origin, will contribute to emission reductions, which we welcome. The Norwegian
Maritime Authority takes a positive view of all measures taken by the industry
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Alf Tore, Acting Director
General of Shipping and Navigation, Norwegian Maritime Authority.
Sustainability takes many forms. (Photo Credit: narawit / Adobe Stock)
Having completed a
successful initial run in August 2022, Holland America’s new test program is one
of the first long-term 100-percent biofuel trials to be conducted among Carnival
Corporation brands during routine ship operations. The parent company’s German
cruise line, AIDA, likewise tested the sustained use of GoodFuels’ biofuels on
board AIDAprima in 2022. Although biofuels have undergone testing on sizeable
diesel engines at onshore research facilities and in various shipping sectors, Carnival
Corporation’s trials reach a new milestone as some of the first live tests
conducted aboard operational cruise vessels.
As part of
Carnival Corporation’s 2023 Sustainability Report, the company is making
substantial progress toward its 2030 sustainability goals and its ultimate aim
of achieving net zero emissions from ship operations by 2050. Through
initiatives like the biofuel pilot test, Holland America Line is leading the
way toward a more sustainable future for the cruise industry and the planet.
