Transport companies in Kenya are making significant progress in carbon reduction initiatives through the adoption of alternative fuel solutions. A notable advancement in this area has been made by DHL Supply Chain, in collaboration with Scania, with the deployment of 25 new Euro 5 biodiesel-powered trucks.
It is worth pointing out here that biodiesel is different from renewable diesel. While both are bio-based fuels, they differ significantly in their production process and properties. Biodiesel is produced via transesterification, a chemical reaction involving fats and oils with alcohol, resulting in an ester fuel.
Renewable diesel, on the other hand, is produced through hydrotreating, a process that converts fats and oils into hydrocarbons, resulting in a fuel chemically similar to petroleum diesel.
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According to Scania East Africa, this initiative marks a pioneering effort in Kenya and the broader East African region, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability and its Scope 3 Science-Based Targets, in accordance with the Paris Agreement.
“The company is actively working towards a cleaner transport future by promoting alternative fuel solutions, enhancing vehicle efficiency, and supporting industry-wide carbon reduction initiatives. This exemplifies Scania’s vision of sustainable transport and its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of road transport,” states Scania East Africa on its website.
“By introducing Euro 5 trucks powered by biodiesel, we are not only reducing emissions but also paving the way for a future where the adoption of 100% renewable fuels becomes a reality,” said Vincente Connolly, Managing Director of Scania East Africa.
According to the company, Scania Euro 5 trucks represent a significant advancement in reducing harmful pollutants compared to traditional diesel vehicles. These trucks are designed to emit lower levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), thereby contributing to improved air quality and a reduced carbon footprint. This innovation supports customers in achieving their sustainability objectives.
For decades, diesel has served as the backbone of transportation in Kenya. However, as fuel costs fluctuate and environmental concerns intensify, many companies are transitioning to renewable fuels such as biodiesel, biogas, and compressed natural gas (CNG) to mitigate emissions.
Biodiesel, derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil, offers a renewable and lower-emission alternative to conventional diesel. The adoption of biodiesel presents a valuable opportunity to decrease reliance on imported fossil fuels by utilizing locally sourced raw materials. This shift not only stabilizes and enhances the sustainability of fuel supply chains but also fosters new opportunities for local industries, spanning agriculture to waste management.
Biodiesel also presents a significant opportunity to diminish dependence on imported fossil fuels by leveraging locally sourced raw materials. This approach not only enhances the stability and sustainability of fuel supply chains but also fosters new opportunities for local industries, spanning agriculture to waste management.
Transportation companies are also increasingly investigating the potential of biogas as a renewable fuel. Biogas is generated from organic waste, including agricultural residues, food waste, and sewage. The production process captures methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and repurposes it as a fuel source.
Utilizing biogas can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90%, positioning it as one of the cleanest fuel alternatives available. Furthermore, its production facilitates a closed-loop system, transforming waste into energy rather than allowing it to contribute to landfill accumulation.
Despite its advantages, the primary challenge facing the adoption of biogas as a transport fuel lies in the necessary infrastructure. For widespread implementation, the development of fuel production facilities and refueling stations is essential, which in turn requires substantial investment and supportive policy frameworks.
