Tank up with biodiesel

The distribution department in Holstebro is currently trialling a fuel mixture, 15 per cent of which is CO2 neutral biodiesel.

Next year, 17 lorries from the distribution department in Holstebro will run on a mixture of diesel and 15 per cent biodiesel. The aim of the experiment is to determine the opportunities and potential problems involved in a switch to this type of fuel.

”One of the aims of our climate strategy is to cut CO2 emissions from vehicles by 25 per cent by 2020.”

"We were approached by the Institute of Technology to take part in an experiment and we agreed," says Transport Manager Kaj Nielsen, Holstebro. "We very much hope that this will turn out to be something that we can support going forward."

The biofuel comes from carcasses and abattoir waste.
"This is very interesting because, in the longer term, it’s not sustainable to produce fuel from our food products," Kaj Nielsen explains.

As the trial started in late November, it's too early to assess the effect on the lorries as well as the environment. Drivers, however, feel that the difference between the new fuel and conventional diesel is negligible.

"So far, I haven't noticed any difference in the running of my vehicle and I don't think about it at all when driving," Henrik Nielsen, one of the dairy's drivers says, "but I think it's a good idea.

"The view is shared by most of the colleagues in the transport department. Nevertheless, opinions differ about the smell of the new fuel."
"Yes, it smells differently from ordinary diesel," says driver Poul Poulsen. "But I don’t think that it's the smell of dead animals."

Facts:

• The Institute of Technology tests the lorries and gathers data on an ongoing basis.
• As the additional costs of the trials are covered, Arla has not incurred any extra costs.
• Daka produces and supplies the biodiesel. Daka produces approximately 5 per cent of Denmark's diesel consumption.