PRESS RELEASE – Jan De Nul Group is switching fuels aboard its dredging vessels in the Benelux. Trailing suction hopper dredger Alexander von Humboldt will be the first vessel of the company to completely switch over to 100% renewable biofuel made from certified and sustainable waste streams.

The choice for 100% renewable fuel is part of the ambitious CO2 reduction objectives of the Jan De Nul Group, which the company announced earlier this year. Jan De Nul aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 15% each year and also wants to collaborate with the Flemish government to introduce a minimal CO2 reduction obligation of 15% for 80% of the maintenance dredging contracts in Flanders by 2022 at the latest.

“Why wait until tomorrow when it’s already possible today? We need concrete action”, says Bart Praet, Head of the Dredging Benelux department at Jan De Nul Group. “This intervention makes us at least 80% CO2 neutral. With this, we want to prove to the governments and to our clients in the Benelux that if they have climate ambitions and incorporate these in the selection procedures, the market is ready for it now. At the same time, we are urging our colleagues in the sector to follow our example in a renewable and climate-neutral trajectory.”

The Flemish government applauds the efforts of the company. “We are glad about the use of this renewable fuel and will definitely include a sustainability criterion for the next procurement of the dredging contract for the evaluation of offers”, says engineer Freddy Aerts, head of division Maritime Access, Department of Mobility and Public Works.

100% renewable fuel

The biofuel is supplied by GoodFuels and reduces CO2 emissions by at least 80%. It is also sulphur-free. Jan de Nul Group entered into a multi-year agreement with Goodfuels, because of their innovative technology and verifiable sustainability guarantees.

“Our energy transition can start today”, Michel Deruyck, Head of the Jan De Nul Energy department, adds. “As we are in continuous consultation with engine manufacturers and other suppliers, we know what is technically feasible. We continue to innovate to remain sustainable and viable in our sector, and to be able to offer our clients alternatives.”

The Alexander von Humboldt will carry out maintenance dredging works in the maritime access routes, on the North Sea and in Flemish seaports.