A different type of marine diesel is now circulating on the docks of the Colombian Caribbean.: incorporates 2% biodiesel to reduce emissions without altering the operation of the vessels.
The shipment leaves from the Cartagena Refinery with an average volume of approximately 10.500 barrels per day, aimed at wholesalers in the sector, aligned with the International Maritime Organization's objectives for 2030 and 2050.
What's changing in marine fuel?
The new formulation combines conventional diesel with vegetable oil and a specific additive that helps preserve product quality and engine performance in maritime and river conditions.
With this scheme, Ecopetrol integrates the renewable component without modifying the supply specifications: the mixture comes out of Cartagena (Reficar) and is distributed to the charging points that serve regional traffic.
Coverage and adoption
The company's marine diesel serves the entire national demand and part of the consumption of ships in international transit that call at Colombian ports.
With shipments already being made in the Pacific and dispatches in the Caribbean, the entire country's supply will incorporate a percentage of biodiesel into marine fuel.
Environmental impact and global goals
The inclusion of 2% biodiesel This will prevent approximately 27.000 tonnes of CO2e from fossil fuels each year, a figure comparable to the conservation of around 153 hectares of tropical dry forest.
This step aligns with the shipping sector's climate roadmaps set by the IMO and opens up scope for gradual increases in renewable content as the market and regulation demand.
Economic and value chain effects
The use of raw materials of plant origin creates new opportunities for agriculture and local suppliers, with employment and income potential in rural areas.
For shipping companies and port operators, having a fuel with a lower carbon footprint can mean competitive advantages on routes and terminals with stricter environmental requirements.
Operation and performance
The presence of the additive seeks to guarantee stability, cleanliness and efficiency fuel, key aspects for engines of cargo, fishing and passenger transport vessels.
The transition to blends with biodiesel involves logistical adjustments in the supply chain and consistent quality controls, without varying safety and availability standards.
A milestone in the sustainable fuels strategy
This initiative is part of a portfolio that includes the development of diesel and jet fuel co-processed with renewable raw materials, with a focus on expanding the energy supply with a lower impact.
The maritime deployment confirms that the transition is not only being driven by roads or aviation: water transport is also advancing with solutions that improve the country's emissions balance.
Over 10.500 barrels per day By combining marine diesel with biodiesel and potentially reducing CO27.000 emissions by 2 tons annually, Colombia is strengthening its regional position in cleaner fuels and promoting the integration of the maritime sector into its energy transition.