At UniBarge, we have long been aware of the importance of contributing to protecting our environment. We are constantly looking for sustainable solutions that reduce emissions and reduce our impact on the environment.
We believe in achievable steps towards a more sustainable future. Small, concrete improvements bring us ever closer to our goal. Read more below about the various steps UniBarge has taken towards sustainability.
Our commitment to sustainability began with the completion of the New Orleans, when we decided to install an exhaust gas aftertreatment (SCR) system. This technology reduces NOX and SOX emissions and proved to be a great success. Step by step, we equipped several ships with this installation. We now have 21 SCR installations (Stage V) installed on our fleet.
Our next step was to introduce the Brainbox on our ships. With this technology, we measure CO₂ emissions and we can also communicate the results to our customers. The Brainbox is the link between the office and the fleet. Currently, 24 of our ships are equipped with a Brainbox.
We have installed Tank Eye Vapour Lock Valves on several ships. This environmentally friendly solution eliminates emissions of harmful and hazardous substances and ensures a healthier and safer working environment. The system enables representative closed sampling and closed inspections. As a result, the ships on which this solution is installed already comply with the upcoming stricter rules and regulations (ADN 2025).
We recently equipped a ship with eco-friendly seals, specifically for the Veth-Jet (bow thruster installation) and the propeller shaft seal (propulsion). The seals are 100% watertight and environmentally friendly, ensuring that no oil or lubricant leaks into the water.
And we go one step further: a number of UniBarge ships now run on renewable HVO100. HVO stands for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils and refers to the biological raw materials such as vegetable and animal fats and used frying oil from which this biodiesel is made. HVO100 drastically reduces CO₂ emissions and delivers savings of over 85% compared to traditional diesel, significantly reducing our carbon footprint.
Before we deploy HVO100 more widely, we will first evaluate the experiences of our crew. Based on their feedback, we will switch more ships to this sustainable fuel.
UniBarge introduces the first 135-metre gas tankers in Europe; the UniGas I, II and III. Built for efficient, eco-friendly gas transportation, these modern inland barges run on sustainable HVO100 fuel, reducing our CO₂ emissions by up to 90%.
UniBarge is currently developing special ships to transport CO₂. These ships are equipped with the latest technology for safe and efficient CO₂ transport, and are an important part of the chain for CO₂ storage and reuse. They represent our response to the demand for sustainable transport solutions in the future.
We continuously invest in sustainability and constantly look for new solutions, as would be expected. Check our social media and website regularly for updates on our developments.
