The expedition ship Le Champlain (from PONANT's Explorers series) is set to utilize B100 biofuel derived from recycled cooking oil in a pioneering trial conducted in collaboration with ALTENS. This initiative marks the first such trial in France and underscores PONANT's commitment to reducing its CO2 emissions by 30% per navigation day by 2030.
The adoption of marine biofuels aligns with PONANT's sustainability objectives, given their significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional fuels, resulting in a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions. These biofuels, produced from used cooking oils, can seamlessly integrate into engines and are readily available. PONANT aims to demonstrate the credibility of this alternative fuel source and its potential contribution to the decarbonization of the company's fleet and the broader maritime industry. The trial will help refine technical parameters and assess the various emissions and gas compositions associated with the use of this biofuel.
The B100 biofuel to be utilized by Le Champlain is produced in France using locally collected cooking oils. It will be distributed by ALTENS, a leading French supplier of alternative non-fossil fuels for the transportation sector. PONANT is the first French cruise line to embark on testing this new generation of biofuels as part of its ongoing sustainability and decarbonization strategy. The initial bunkering will include tests to ensure compliance with regulatory specifications, particularly regarding NOx emissions. Additional measurements will be taken for SOx, particulates, and black carbon emissions. Pending the successful completion of this trial phase, PONANT plans to extend the use of biofuels to the remainder of its fleet, subject to supply capacity.
During a technical stop in Port Cherbourg, Le Champlain will be refueled with B100 biodiesel, exclusively produced from cooking oils sourced from the French food industry, catering establishments, and culinary trades.
Le Champlain is equipped with Wartsila diesel engines, and B100 biofuel is fully compatible as a drop-in fuel to meet environmental targets. With CO2 emissions reduced by 90% compared to fossil fuels, it surpasses European requirements for 2035. The entire B100 biofuel production sector holds certification from ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification), an internationally recognized standard endorsed by the European Union, guaranteeing raw material traceability.
ALTENS, a leading French provider of various alternative fuels, focuses on offering decarbonization solutions. In 2023, ALTENS is launching the PUR-BioM range of biofuels aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of maritime transportation in France. With lower CO2eq impact compared to marine fuels, B30, B100, and HVO100 present practical and effective solutions to environmental challenges.
ALTENS also offers the "PUR" range, allowing a 60 to 90% reduction in its customers' CO2eq emissions. This extensive product range enables companies to select the most suitable biofuel based on their specific needs, environmental objectives, technical or economic constraints, and regulatory requirements (taxation, REDIII, Low emission zones, CII, FuelEU Maritime). ALTENS actively contributes to the ecological energy transition by informing users of available solutions, raising awareness among contractors, and participating in the training of alternative fuel decision-makers. Their involvement extends to supporting customers in the digitalization of sustainability traceability management, facilitated by tools such as MyAltens, enhancing transparency and governance in the adoption of alternative energy solutions. ALTENS serves as a decarbonization partner, advising and supporting over 500 customers with flexible, comprehensive, complementary, and scalable solutions.