Jan De Nul Opts for 100% Renewable Fuels in Benelux

Jan de Nul Group, a company that provides services related to maritime infrastructure and which has its financial headquarters in Luxembourg, announced on Monday its decision to opt for 100% renewable fuels.

From now on, Jan De Nul Group will carry out its maintenance dredging works in the Benelux using 100% renewable fuel in an attempt to considerably and immediately reduce its CO₂ emissions. In this context, the lead ship Alexander von Humboldt will now be powered by sustainable and renewable biofuel from certified and sustainable waste sources.

The decision to opt for 100% renewable fuels is in line with Jan De Nul Group's targets for reducing CO₂ emissions. In this context, Jan De Nul is cooperating with the Flemish government to achieve the mandatory minimum reduction of CO₂ emissions of 15% for 80% of the maintenance dredging works in Flanders by 2022. 

Indeed, by 2050, the EU wants to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 80 to 95% compared to 1990. At least 40% of this reduction must be achieved by 2030. In this context, Bart Praet, Head of the Benelux Dredging Department of Jan De Nul Group, commented: "Why wait tomorrow if we can do it today? Concrete action is needed". He added: "With this intervention, we achieve a carbon neutral footprint of 80%, so we want to prove to the Benelux authorities and our customers that, if they have climate ambitions and if they integrate them into their selection procedure, the market is ready and at the same time we invite our colleagues in the sector to follow our example on a renewable path with a neutral effect on the climate.We strive to achieve this energy transition by focusing on innovative solutions".

Leading ship Alexander von Humboldt will thus navigate renewable and sustainable biofuel from certified sustainable waste streams. The vessel will carry out maintenance dredging work in the sea access routes of the North Sea and Flemish seaports. This second generation of biofuels delivered by the market leader GoodFuels biofuels, will reduce CO2 emissions by at least 80% and is also sulphur-free. . Jan De Nul Group has a multi-year cooperation agreement with GoodFuels.

Michel Deruyck, Head of the Energy Unit at Jan De Nul Group, added: "Our energy transition can begin today. As we are in continuous dialogue with engine manufacturers and other suppliers, we know what is technically feasible, we continue to innovate to remain sustainable and profitable in our industry and to offer alternatives to our clients".