The Role of Biofuels in Maritime Transportation

Biofuels are sustainable and renewable energy sources developed as alternatives to fossil fuels. Derived from biomass such as vegetable oils, used cooking oils, agricultural residues, and other organic matter, they not only enable the reuse of waste materials but also serve as a powerful tool for reducing global carbon emissions.

The maritime industry is the backbone of global trade—and one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Biofuels offer “drop-in” solutions that can be used without any modification to existing ship engines or fuel infrastructure. This seamless compatibility accelerates the energy transition and plays a critical role in reducing the environmental footprint of international shipping.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

* Reduced carbon emissions: Depending on the blending ratio, biofuels can lower lifecycle CO₂ emissions by 20% to over 80%.

* Regulatory compliance: A fast and reliable solution to meet IMO and EU requirements such as CII, EU ETS, and FuelEU Maritime.

* Lower SOₓ and particulate matter: Contributes to cleaner air and healthier marine ecosystems.

* Enhanced energy security: Diversifies energy sources and reduces dependency on fossil fuels.

* Supports the circular economy: Transforms waste into valuable resources, reinforcing sustainable production models.

Produced from Waste and Residues

Arkas Bunker biofuels are produced exclusively from waste-derived vegetable oils. Feedstocks such as used cooking oil—collected from restaurants and food-processing facilities—are entirely non-edible and do not compete with the food supply. These fuels require no agricultural land, do not contribute to deforestation, and fully comply with sustainability criteria while protecting biodiversity.

Arkas Bunker Biofuels

As Türkiye’s first ISCC-EU certified marine fuel supplier, Arkas Bunker delivers sustainability-driven biofuel solutions that combine environmental stewardship with operational excellence. All our products ensure full traceability and transparency through Proof of Sustainability (PoS) and Proof of Compliance (PoC) documentation.

Bio24F

Bio24F is a marine biofuel blend composed of 24% ISCC-EU certified used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME) and 76% fuel oil. This formulation significantly reduces carbon emissions and, with its low sulfur content, also contributes to the reduction of SOₓ emissions.

The UCOME component is derived from used cooking oils collected from restaurants and food facilities—directly supporting the circular economy. Thanks to its “drop-in” compatibility, Bio24F can be used without any technical modification to ship engines.

Arkas Bunker achieved a major milestone by completing Türkiye’s first commercial marine biofuel delivery with Bio24F, marking a pivotal step in maritime decarbonization. The product also helps shipowners comply with CII, EU ETS, and FuelEU Maritime requirements efficiently.

Bio30F

Bio30F is a blend of 30% ISCC-EU certified bio-component (UCOME) and 70% fuel oil. With its higher bio-content, it delivers a 25–28% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional marine fuels.

Designed specifically for shipowners aiming to meet the European Union’s FuelEU Maritime targets, Bio30F enables greater emissions reduction without compromising operational performance.

Its “drop-in” nature ensures full compatibility with existing marine engines, offering a strategic solution for companies seeking to advance their medium-term decarbonization goals.

B100 UCOME Biodiesel

B100 UCOME Biodiesel is a 100% pure biodiesel produced entirely from used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME). As the product with the highest renewable content in our portfolio, it delivers over 80% lifecycle carbon emission reduction.

Produced exclusively from waste-derived raw materials, B100 does not compete with the food supply or require agricultural land. It is manufactured under a strict zero-deforestation policy, safeguarding biodiversity throughout the supply chain.

B100 UCOME Biodiesel is designed for shipowners and operators seeking maximum environmental performance and measurable progress toward a low-carbon maritime future.