British Antarctic Survey trialing HVO on RRS Sir David Attenborough

In the UK, British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is using Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for the first time on the RRS Sir David Attenborough, as an alternative to conventional diesel fuel, as part of a trial to reduce carbon emissions.

The trial starting in July of HVO on the RRS Sir David Attenborough is part of a program of work to help reach net zero emissions by 2040, in line with ambitious targets set by BAS’s parent body, UK Research and Innovation. BAS is a research institute of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).  Emissions from shipping activities account for approximately 60% of the carbon footprint of BAS and therefore reducing these emissions is a key part of the organisation’s strategic net zero delivery plan.