A new Danish study based on real-life ship operations has found that using biofuel can significantly reduce harmful emissions from the shipping sector. The findings have been submitted to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for review, reports Biodiesel Magazine.
The study highlights major reductions in black carbon, a form of soot released by ships that worsens air pollution, affects human health and accelerates global warming, particularly in the Arctic. Experts involved in the CLEANSHIP project reported that ships running on biodiesel, specifically B100 FAME, recorded up to an 81 per cent drop in black carbon emissions compared with those using conventional marine fuel.
The data was collected from the Uni-Tankers vessel Falstria Swan during normal sailing operations. An advanced monitoring device, developed by Green Instruments in partnership with the Danish Technological Institute, enabled continuous and real-time tracking of emissions while the ship was in regular service.
Researchers said the results were stronger than expected, especially at lower engine power levels. They noted that biodiesel not only lowers overall carbon emissions but also sharply reduces black carbon, which plays a key role in the shipping industry’s climate impact. The new monitoring technology also provided more detailed emission data than previously possible.
Officials from Uni-Tankers said the real-world findings offer valuable insight into both soot and carbon emissions linked to biodiesel use. They added that this information will help the company meet its emission reduction goals and support broader efforts to reduce pollution across the shipping sector.
Despite the positive results, the study noted that current global biofuel production is not sufficient to meet the full energy needs of the global shipping fleet. Researchers said further analysis is ongoing to identify practical ways to reduce black carbon and other emissions from ships.
The findings have been compiled into a white paper and submitted to the IMO. The document is expected to support international efforts to curb black carbon emissions, especially in sensitive regions such as the Arctic. It is scheduled to be reviewed at the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response meeting in February 2026.
