Danish shipping company Norden has completed a significant biofuel trial with MASH Makes. The trial marks the “world’s first” commercial vessel using biofuel produced via a carbon-negative process.
The trial involved a B20 biofuel blend in the auxiliary engine of a vessel. The ship made a round-trip journey from Singapore to Brazil. During the voyage, 65 tonnes of the fuel blend were consumed. Results indicate that MASH Makes’ biofuel is compatible with existing marine systems.
This potential can reduce reliance on fossil fuels in specific maritime applications. MASH Makes claims the trial provides a viable path for shipowners to cut emissions. They suggest this can be done without new infrastructure.
The next phase will test the biofuel in main engines. The company plans to expand its use across commercial fleets. Henrik Røjel, from Norden, stated that the trial verifies the fuel’s suitability for marine engines. He called it an important step toward operational integration.
Jakob Bejbro Andersen, CEO of MASH Makes, said their biofuel meets the shipping industry’s technical requirements. He noted it works in unmodified engines, making it a seamless and scalable alternative.
In 2023, Norden acquired a minority stake in MASH Makes. This acquisition aimed to secure access to renewable fuels, especially bio-oil, at favorable prices.
MASH Makes also produces biochar as a byproduct of biofuel production. For every tonne of biofuel, the company generates 1.8 tonnes of biochar. Each tonne of biochar sequesters 3.14 tonnes of CO2 in the soil. This establishes a clear link between fuel production and carbon removal.
The biofuel producer is collaborating with the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. They aim to demonstrate how the center’s methodology applies to biochar and biofuel. The collaboration focuses on evaluating emissions and transparent accounting of co-products. This information contributes to overall maritime decarbonization goals.
