High blend renewable fuels could help to decarbonise the HGV industry

The widespread adoption of high blend renewable fuels (HBRF) could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from truck operations by an extra 46 million tonnes, according to a new report published by Zemo Partnership. 

According to the report, HBRF can demonstrate over 80% well-to-wheel reductions in GHG emission.

Based on this, they have the potential to be particularly effective in heavier and long-haul applications, which will be the most difficult to electrify in the short-term.

Based on this, the authors of the study have highlighted that a near-term policy to encourage HBRF can complement the long-term electrification strategy for transport.

A key recommendation of the report is for the need for a robust and transparent Assurance Scheme in order to provide operators with confidence in the credentials of the renewable fuels they purchase.

The study highlights that there are very significant opportunities for sustainable, renewable fuel adoption by heavy-duty vehicles and, in particular, trucks and coaches which are currently responsible for around 5% of the UK’s total GHG emissions.

The study showed that with a market average of 30% HBRF, used in place of fossil fuels (diesel and natural gas) by 2030, the sector could save an additional 46m tonnes in GHG emissions over the next decade, with savings continuing to 2050. The biggest opportunities are in the heaviest vehicles with the longest journey profiles, which also produce the most GHG emissions.

Zemo Partnership’s Head of Sustainability Gloria Esposito said: ‘We’re now on a trajectory for net-zero emissions transport by 2050, but our impact on the climate is what matters and action in this area can accelerate GHG emissions cuts over the next 30 years.

‘If we can decarbonise the fuels we’ll be using until we can achieve full electrification across the vehicle fleet, we can minimise the impact of emissions from road transport on our way to zero.’

Photo Credit — Pixabay