Innovation

As a pioneer in the large-scale marketing and distribution of biofuels in the Benelux countries, Argos has set the standard

Quantitative targets

We have set ourselves clear quantitative targets for the use of and the requirements for sustainable biofuels. These requirements are in line with the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and the Fuels Quality Directive (FQD). However, we have decided to go one step further.

We go further and set ourselves more stringent targets. ‘Best in class’ means that biofuels should reduce CO2 emission by 70% or more.  In 2012 one quarter of biofuels used should meet these requirements. In addition, one of our targets is to buy second generation and new biofuels if they are sufficiently available.

CO2reductie door biobrandstoffen - tabel

For the coming years, the RED and FQD require the following regarding CO2 reduction of biofuels.

Sourcing

In the field of sourcing we want to operate pro-actively in order to secure sustainability.
We will do this through:

  1. Sourcing different raw materials. This will prevent a food-versus-fuel discussion, boost local initiatives and guarantee a well-balanced supply of biofuels.
  2. Promoting the development of second generation biofuels, so that these can be sourced as soon as there is enough supply. These biofuels are mainly derived from residual waste streams and they are not used as raw materials for food production. Hence, this will have practically no negative side-effects.
  3. Making ourselves accountable through traceability of raw materials. To promote production on a global scale, traceability is essential. Since 2011, Argos is ISCC certified, which means that we – as a link further down the chain – can secure sustainability and can be held accountable.
  4. Collaborating with NGOs and governments to promote initiatives and secure sustainability.

SkyNRG

Although in the aviation industry blending fossil fuels with biofuels is not yet mandatory, Argos has already taken important steps in this area. In 2009 North Sea Group, together with KLM Royal Dutch Airline and Spring Associates, launched the SkyNRG joint venture. After a test flight in November 2009, KLM was the first airline company to use bio-jet fuel for commercial flights with SkyNRG suppying the sustainable biofuel.

SkyNRG wants to contribute to the creation of a sustainable future for aviation by developing a sustainable supply chain for alternative jet fuels. The market for these fuels is still in its infancy. SkyNRG is taking a first step in making the dream of sustainable aviation come true.

SkyNRG develops and sells sustainable kerosene for the global aviation market based on a unique low-cost model. It focuses on developing and building a sustainable jet fuel market. In this process the fuel’s safety, sustainability and affordability are key elements.

The advantage of blending biofuels with kerosene is the higher percentage that can be added. Instead of 5-7% as is the case in road transport, in aviation 50% can be added without any problems.

Argos has a 30% interest in SkyNRG.

Visit the SkyNRG website

BioPetrol

Argos has a 17.8% share in BioPetrol Industries AG, a producer of biodiesel and pharma glycerine. This Swiss company by origin has factories in Germany and the Netherlands. Manufacturing is organised in such a way that all substances released during production are further processed, either internally or externally. As a result, there is no waste. In combination with measures to reduce CO2 emission this ensures sustainable production.

The biodiesel is made from different vegetable oils. Customers include oil companies that use the biodiesel to blend it with regular diesel. Pharma glycerine is a by-product of the biodiesel production and is used for products such as cosmetics, liquid detergents and toothpaste.

BioPetrol is in the top three of European producers of biodiesel and pharma glycerine. Its factories are modern and state-of-the-art. BioPetrol operates in a rapidly changing market, driven by European legislation and big ambitions.

Visit the BioPetrol website