Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 25, Danish shipping company Norden, in partnership with renewable energy firm MASH Makes, has successfully conducted the world’s first commercial vessel trial using biofuel produced through a carbon-negative process. The trial took place on a round-trip voyage from Singapore to Brazil, utilizing a B20 biofuel blend in the vessel’s auxiliary engine.

The trial consumed 65 tonnes of the biofuel blend, demonstrating its compatibility as a drop-in fuel for existing marine systems. MASH Makes noted: “The results of this trial point to a practical path for shipowners to cut emissions without waiting for new infrastructure.” The biofuel’s ability to integrate seamlessly with current engines offers a viable solution for reducing fossil fuel dependency in maritime operations.

Norden’s Head of Decarbonization and Climate Solutions, Henrik Røjel, stated: “This trial proves that MASH Makes’ biofuel is suitable for marine engines, and it marks an important milestone towards bringing the fuel into our operation.” The company plans to expand testing to main engines, aiming to broaden the biofuel’s use across commercial fleets.

Jakob Bejbro Andersen, CEO of MASH Makes, added: “Our biofuel meets the technical requirements of the shipping industry and can be used in unmodified engines. It’s a seamless, scalable alternative ready to cut emissions today.” The success of the trial underscores the potential for immediate adoption of renewable fuels in the maritime sector.

In 2023, Norden acquired a minority stake in MASH Makes to secure access to renewable bio-oil at competitive prices. MASH Makes’ production process generates 1.8 tonnes of biochar for every tonne of biofuel produced. This biochar, a carbon-rich material applied to soil, sequesters 3.14 tonnes of CO2 per tonne, resulting in 5.7 tonnes of CO2 permanently stored per tonne of biofuel produced.

MASH Makes is collaborating with the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping to evaluate the lifecycle emissions of its biofuel and biochar pathway. This partnership aims to transparently account for the carbon removal benefits of biochar and assess its contribution to maritime decarbonization goals.

The trial represents a significant step toward sustainable shipping, offering a scalable solution that aligns with the industry’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By leveraging carbon-negative biofuels, Norden and MASH Makes are paving the way for environmentally responsible maritime operations without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.