A collaborative report has emerged, scrutinising the sustainability of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a potential replacement fuel.
- The report provides an unvarnished view of HVO, examining both its potential benefits and limitations.
- Strategies for risk mitigation within the HVO supply chain are thoroughly presented in the document.
- The contribution from leading organisations underscores the significance of responsible procurement practices.
- The guidance is hailed for its comprehensive approach, moving beyond simplistic carbon metrics.
In an effort to clarify the complexities surrounding hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a fuel, sceptics and enthusiasts have co-authored a report that critically assesses its sustainability credentials. This report, produced by Action Sustainability for the Supply Chain Sustainability School, has garnered insights from notable organisations such as Balfour Beatty, Kier, Costain, Sunbelt Rentals, Speedy, and the Environment Agency. According to the authors, the report’s intent is neither promotional nor dissuasive. “Its aim is simply to present the facts, as far as they are known, with relevant procurement guidance applied to that knowledge to advise the reader,” they explain. While HVO cannot be considered a panacea for ecological concerns, careful procurement strategies are recommended to maximise its potential advantages.
The guidance delves into the entire lifecycle of HVO, encompassing its raw material sourcing, processing, shipping, and eventual utilisation. Comprehensive strategies are outlined to manage and mitigate the various sustainability risks and impacts associated with the HVO supply chain. The document thoughtfully examines the sustainability benefits and drawbacks of biofuels, with a particular focus on HVO, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the subject.
A detailed overview of HVO’s market availability and size is presented, alongside a critical analysis of potential market distortions that might affect its viability. Recommendations for effective risk mitigation mechanisms are provided to navigate these challenges. The report’s contributors acknowledge the complexity of the task, with Ben Stone, Kier’s head of environmental sustainability, emphasising the value of the guidance in supporting the industry to procure HVO responsibly.
Jo Potts, Balfour Beatty’s sustainability director, appreciates the report’s holistic approach, which shifts the focus from a narrow carbon-centric view to a broader analysis of HVO fuels. Potts finds it refreshing that the guide delineates not only the merits and shortcomings but also the uncertainties surrounding HVO fuels. Meanwhile, James Cadman from Action Sustainability stresses the importance of due diligence when sourcing HVO, advocating for sustainability assurance through schemes such as the UK’s Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme.
Cadman’s perspective underlines the importance of transitioning away from fossil fuels in a manner that is both environmentally responsible and aligned with net zero targets. The report is available for those interested in exploring its recommendations and insights further.
This report provides a crucial resource for organisations committed to environmentally responsible HVO procurement.
