Holland America Line announced the start of biofuel testing on its flagship Rotterdam, using 100% low-carbon biofuels while sailing within the Norwegian World Heritage fjords.
On April 27th, the ship completed biofuel refueling before leaving the port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands and will use low-carbon fuel extracted from organic waste or residue to run one of its four engines during its stay in the fjord, certified under the EU Renewable Energy Directive.
The GoodFuels MR1-100 sustainable biofuel provided by FincoEnergies is expected to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by 86%.
Dutch American Cruise is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and we are pleased to showcase the next generation of fuel sources that can help us pursue net zero emissions, "said Gus Antorcha, President of Dutch American Cruise.
Converting food waste into fuel is an innovative way to address environmental challenges, and we appreciate the support of the Dutch government.
The initial testing will be conducted on one of the four engines on board during the cruise and may be expanded to multiple engines during summer operation in the Norwegian World Heritage fjords, particularly Geirangerfjord and N æ r ø yfjord.
Johannes Sch rmann, Director of International Maritime Business at FincoEnergies, said, "The GoodFuels MR1-100 complies with current shipping practices that use fuels. We work with our customers to optimize the sustainability and cost of biofuels without affecting the performance of engines and fuel systems
He said, "It is necessary to find all good alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the future. We believe that biofuels are one of the alternatives, and if used properly and sourced correctly, they will help reduce emissions. We welcome this." Alf Tore, Acting Director General of Shipping and Navigation at the Norwegian Maritime Authority, said that the Norwegian Maritime Authority has a positive attitude towards all measures taken by the shipping industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
(Source: Holland America Line Global Biomass Energy Network, Integrated New Energy Network)
