A cargo ship glided between Mikawa Bay and Tokyo Bay for weeks, its engine fuelled by an unusual combination: heavy fuel oil and straight vegetable oil. Japan has now completed the world’s first maritime trial using a biofuel derived from used cooking oil, potentially charting a new course for low-emission transport.
Industry Collaboration Drives Maritime Fuel Innovation
The project was carried out in partnership with Hanwa Co. Ltd., the supplier of the biofuel, and Tokyo Steel Manufacturing Co. Ltd., which handled cargo during the voyage. The vessel ran without any reported technical or safety problems.
Direct Use of Natural Waste Oil Offers Sustainable Alternative
The vessel operated on a fuel mix containing 24% biofuel, made from waste cooking oil sourced from Japanese vegetable oils and fats. The mixture was used without undergoing chemical processing such as methyl esterification or hydrogenation. “This approach ensures a more direct and natural use of waste cooking oil, contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative for the maritime sector.”
Real-World Engine Performance Demonstrates Reliability
The vessel completed the trial period without any disruptions. Engine operations remained stable, and the biofuel showed no signs of flammability issues or performance loss. The report said, “The vessel operated smoothly, with no performance issues or flammability concerns reported,” noting this was “the first-ever implementation of this biofuel in marine vessels.”
Existing Engine Systems Enable Seamless Integration
The trial used the ship’s existing engine systems without requiring structural or technical changes. “One of the most significant advantages of this biofuel is its ability to be used in existing vessels without requiring major modifications to the engines or other essential systems.”
Environmental and Economic Value Strengthens Commercial Case
The biofuel’s cost-effectiveness adds to its environmental appeal. Without the need for chemical processing, production costs are lower and scalability improves.
Its use without infrastructure upgrades positions it as a viable option for widespread implementation.
Alignment with Japan’s National Sustainability Framework
The biofuel trial aligns with Japan’s ongoing efforts to reduce maritime emissions, as outlined in the “MOL Environmental Vision 2.2” released in April 2023.
The strategy focuses on transitioning to cleaner fuels, especially for small vessels with limited space for storage and retrofitting. This test builds on a June 2023 project involving liquefied biomethane, reflecting continued momentum in alternative fuel development.
Demonstrating a Scalable Model for Global Shipping
Collaboration between Hanwa Co. Ltd. and Tokyo Steel enabled the trial to move from concept to execution. Hanwa supplied the fuel; Tokyo Steel ensured operational continuity. “This project serves as a prime example of how innovative solutions can help mitigate the environmental impact of global shipping,” the report said. The project offers a template for integrating low-emission fuels into regional shipping routes.
Advancing Towards a Cleaner Maritime Future
The successful biofuel trial strengthens Japan’s role in the international effort to cut shipping emissions. “Japan is positioning itself at the forefront of the global movement toward sustainable maritime operations,” the report stated.
Japan moves ahead with its sustainability roadmap, more pilot projects using clean fuels are expected. “The success of this coastal vessel trial with biofuel derived from used cooking oil is a major step forward in achieving these sustainability goals, showing that alternative energy solutions for the maritime industry are not only possible but also practical and economically viable.”