B24 biofuel is a sustainable marine fuel blend that consists of 24% used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME) and 76% very low-sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) 1. This blend is increasingly being used in the maritime sector as a 'plug-and- play' solution to reduce carbon emissions while the industry transitions to lower or zero- carbon alternatives.
This significant achievement by Tata Steel involved importing 1,48,500 metric tons of coal from Gladstone, Australia to Paradip, India, with a 20% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional methods.
The vessel, MV Cape XL, embarked on this journey from Gladstone port on April 17, 2024, and successfully berthed at Kalinga International Coal Terminal Paradip Private Ltd. (KICTPPL) on May 8, 2024. The use of B24-grade biofuel, which is a blend of 24% used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME) and 76% very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO), resulted in approximately 565 tons less carbon emission.
This initiative not only demonstrates Tata Steel's commitment to reducing carbon emissions but also sets a new standard for sustainability in the maritime industry. It aligns with the company's ambitious Scope 3 reduction targets and marks a milestone in India's maritime sector. Tata Steel's proactive approach towards sustainable shipping practices is commendable and showcases their alignment with global efforts to combat climate change.
Impact on Tata Steel's overall carbon footprint
Tata Steel's use of B24 biofuel for its raw material shipment is a significant step towards reducing its overall carbon footprint. The company has set ambitious sustainability goals, including a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 and a 75% reduction by around 2035, with the ultimate goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.The successful voyage using B24 biofuel, which resulted in a 20% reduction in carbon emissions for that shipment, contributes to these targets¹. By adopting greener shipping practices and investing in sustainable technologies, Tata Steel is actively working to lower the emission intensity of its steel production.
Moreover, Tata Steel is exploring the transition to green hydrogen-based steel making and other innovative technologies to further reduce emissions³. The company's commitment to climate action is also reflected in its endorsement of the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
Overall, such initiatives are critical for Tata Steel to meet its carbon footprint reduction targets and align with global efforts to combat climate change. The impact of these measures is expected to be substantial, considering Tata Steel's scale and the steel industry's significant contribution to global CO2 emissions.
Advertisements