By Germany’s Cologne Bonn Airport has made a sustainable switch by adopting Neste’s renewable diesel for its diesel-powered ground fleet. Neste, the Finnish refiner, announced this positive development on Wednesday.
The renewable diesel is derived from 100% renewable raw materials and is specifically used to power heavy vehicles like the airport’s fire trucks. According to Neste, these vehicles cannot be easily electrified, making the renewable fuel an ideal alternative.
By transitioning to this eco-friendly fuel, the airport anticipates a substantial reduction of nearly 3,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year. This remarkable achievement can be attributed to the fact that the renewable diesel emits up to 90% less greenhouse gas over its lifecycle when compared to fossil diesel.
Cologne Bonn Airport stands out as the sole airport in Germany that offers Neste’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to airlines. Additionally, the airport employs Neste’s renewable diesel for its own diesel-powered ground fleet. In fact, it was one of the pioneering German airports to introduce Neste SAF to airlines in 2021.
Notably, the transition from fossil diesel to renewable diesel did not require any modifications to the existing diesel vehicles. Neste emphasizes that the chemical composition of this fuel closely resembles that of fossil diesel.
This progressive move by Cologne Bonn Airport marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future in air travel. With Neste’s renewable diesel powering their ground fleet, the airport is making a positive impact by minimizing its carbon footprint.
by Michael Schneider
Renewable diesel has emerged as a game-changer in the quest for sustainable mobility. Neste, known as the world’s leading producer of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel, is revolutionizing the industry. With its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 million tons annually by 2030, Neste is driving the shift towards a greener future.
“This means that it is a drop-in replacement for fossil diesel, fully compatible with all diesel engines and current diesel fuel distribution infrastructure,” highlights Neste. This compatibility ensures a seamless transition to renewable diesel without any compromise on performance, making it an ideal and sustainable solution.
Thilo Schmid, the visionary Airport Chief Executive, recognizes the significance of renewable fuel in promoting climate-friendly mobility. He emphasizes how renewable diesel is a crucial addition to their concept, particularly for large vehicles like the airport’s fire department fleet. For these vehicles, diesel remains the necessary standard.
Neste’s commitment goes beyond just renewable diesel production. Aiming for carbon-neutral production by 2035, Neste seeks to make a substantial impact on reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the company plans to decrease the carbon emission intensity of its sold products by 50% by 2040, further solidifying its dedication to sustainability.
Renewable diesel’s rise marks an important milestone in sustainable transportation. With Neste leading the charge towards a greener future, there is hope for a significant reduction in carbon emissions and a brighter tomorrow.
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