Advanced biofuels made from used cooking oils significantly reduce GHG emissions compared to fossil fuels. This is due to the feedstock coming from plants that have absorbed atmospheric CO2 while growing. Marine biofuels can be used in existing vessels without significant modifications to the engines and other equipment; these are considered to be used as a way to reduce CO2 emissions during the operation of existing vessels. The sea trial will use a fuel composed of a mix of conventional heavy fuel oil and biofuels made from waste cooking oils. The trial will verify the safe operation of machinery onboard and evaluate the quantity of CO2 emissions reduction through the usage of biofuel. Using this blended fuel is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 15–20% in this trial.
ORIX Group has set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets as part of its ESG-related “Materials Issues” and “Key Goals” and promoted sustainability activities. These initiatives include its ship business, where the Group has conducted a feasibility study of energy-saving ship operations utilizing wind power and placed orders for methanol-fueled ships.
Going forward, ORIX Group will continue to draw on its experience and expertise to promote initiatives that lead to sustainability, such as the decarbonization of marine transportation.
