Methanol marine fuels consultancy GREENMARINE and Vertoro, a Maersk-backed Dutch start-up focused on developing liquid lignin technology which can be used as a bunker fuel, has signed an agreement to jointly accelerate the market validation and commercial roll-out of lignin-alcohol as sustainable marine fuels.

“We at GREENMARINE Group are excited to join forces with Vertoro to bring their revolutionary lignin alcohol blend fuel to market,” said Fredrik Stubner, founder and CEO of GREENMARINE Group.

“This breakthrough technology redefines sustainable maritime fuels, delivering environmental benefits and cost efficiencies, paving the way for a greener, more competitive shipping industry.”

Dr. Michael Boot Boot, co-founder & co-CEO Vertoro, replied, “GREENMARINE Group has an excellent track record as a match maker for green fuel producers with engine manufacturers and shipping companies, opening many doors for us on both the fuel validation and offtake side.”

Vertoro, founded in 2017, produces liquid lignin exclusively from sustainably sourced forestry and agricultural residues by means of a patented thermochemical process. Like fossil oil, liquid lignin can be used as a platform for fuel, chemical and material applications.

Related: Maersk invests in Dutch start-up Vertoro to develop green lignin marine fuels

Photo credit: CHUTTERSNAP from Unsplash
Published: 11 July 2025

Europe’s largest manufacturer of waste-based biodiesel Greenergy on Thrusday (10 July) confirmed it will begin consultation on a proposal to cease production at its biodiesel plant in Immingham, Lincolnshire.

Despite significant cost reductions to improve the plant’s viability, the Immingham plant has continued to be negatively impacted by market factors, including slower increases in the UKs biofuels blending mandates compared to European countries and competition from subsidised US-origin products.

Greenergy’s announcement follows the strategic review of its biodiesel operations at Immingham, announced in late May 2025. Consultation with affected employees will begin as soon as possible. Greenergy is committed to supporting staff through this period.

“It has been an incredibly difficult decision to enter consultation on the proposed closure of our Immingham site, and a decision we have not taken lightly,” said Greenergy CEO Adam Trager.

“However, in light of continuing market pressures, we unfortunately do not have enough certainty on the outlook for UK biofuels policy to make the substantial investments required to create a competitive operation at Immingham.

“We are seeking urgent talks with ministers about increasing the amount of biofuels used in the UKs petrol and diesel, a move which will help protect the biofuels sector, as well as cutting the UK’s emissions, particularly from HGVs.

“Today’s decision does not reflect the dedication and hard work of affected staff and I would like to thank our employees at Immingham for their tremendous efforts to date. Our priority is supporting our employees through this difficult period.”

Related: Bunker One takes over Greenergy’s Thames client base
Related: Propeller Fuels to sell Greenergy bunker fuels in UK
Related: UK-based Greenergy time-charters two bunkering vessels for marine fuel deliveries
Related: Greenergy adds 0.5%S bunkers to UK marine fuel supply operations
Related: Greenergy extends its marine fuel supply network to include Tyne, UK
Related: UK: Greenergy commences supply of MGO from Thurrock port
Related: UK: Greenergy expands oil business into the marine fuels sector

Photo credit: Greenergy
Published: 11 July 2025

Singapore-based bunker trading firm Sea Oil Petroleum Pte Ltd (Sea Oil), a wholly owned subsidiary of Thailand-listed Sea Oil Public Company Limited, has received International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) EU certification, learned Manifold Times.

ISCC EU is a certification scheme that verifies compliance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids within the European Union. It ensures that biomass and biofuels used in the EU meet specific environmental and social requirements, including greenhouse gas emission reductions and traceability throughout the supply chain.

The milestone, which took place on 22 May after two months of processing, was reflective of the company’s aim to expand its bunker fuel product offerings to clients seeking sustainable solutions, Steve Goh, Head of Trading at Sea Oil, told the bunkering publication.

“It is important for the bunkering sector to remain relevant, adapt, and play an active role in supporting shipping’s decarbonisation journey,” said Mr Goh while adding that, “this is in line with our group’s green initiative and sustainability drive.”

“As such, Sea Oil seeks to do its part for climate change by giving options to support to our end users.

“By achieving ISCC EU certification, Sea Oil will be in a better position to provide green marine fuel solutions to customers embarking on this journey towards net zero.”

Manifold Times in May reported Sea Oil welcoming a Senior Bunker Trader to its team.

The company started 2025 with an expanded team on both international and local fronts.

Sea Oil Petroleum may be reached at: [email protected]

Related: Singapore: Sea Oil Petroleum boosts Asia and international presence with new Senior Bunker Trader
Related: Singapore: Sea Oil Petroleum enters 2025 with international representatives, expanded team

Photo credit: Sea Oil Petroleum
Published: 10 July 2025