Cory switches Thames tugs to biofuel as part of net zero drive

Cory has moved its fleet of tugs operating on the Thames from marine gas oil to biofuel. 

The move follows successful trials that have resulted in a reduction of net carbon dioxide emissions by 90% – a major step in decarbonising the company’s river operations and transport on the Thames as the UK targets net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The biofuel, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) will bring additional air quality benefits – reducing nitrous oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions by 19% and 21% respectively.

HVO is produced from waste materials such as used cooking oil and waste fats, which do not release any new carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The feedstocks used to manufacture HVO are 100% waste, with all raw materials checked and verified, and the fuel’s credentials audited by the Department for Transport (DFT) to ensure both sustainability and product integrity are certified.

Moving to biofuels has been a straightforward switch over for the business, requiring no vessel modifications, following extensive emissions testing.

Moving to biofuels has been a straightforward switch over for the business, requiring no vessel modifications, following extensive emissions testing. While the use of biofuels provides us with an immediate opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions from our river fleet, we recognise that it is only a transitional step on our road to net zero. We will be undertaking research and development into zero emissions marine vessels and look forward to making further announcements on this soon.

Cory has been operating on the River Thames since the company’s incorporation 125 years ago in 1896. The current fleet of tugs are responsible for transporting more than 1 million tonnes of recyclable and non-recyclable waste per year. Cory’s use of the river to transport waste is unique in the UK and saves 100,000 truck movements annually, helping to keep London’s roads safer, cleaner, and less congested.

More information

Email: helen.murphy@corygroup.co.uk