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For sustainable fuels, the energy transition of maritime shipping depends on exactly the same raw materials as aviation.

According to a study by the Aerospace Center of TU Delft, there is a threat of a shortage of raw materials for sustainable fuels. From 2035, airlines would therefore be less able to go green as quickly as possible.

For sustainable fuels, the energy transition of maritime shipping depends on exactly the same raw materials as aviation. Ships, like airplanes, need a fuel that contains a lot of energy but takes up little space. This leaves enough space to transport cargo. An imminent shortage of the raw materials of these energy carriers therefore also affects shipping.

This impending shortage could have an even greater impact on shipping in the near future. This is due to the EU 'Fuel EU Maritime' legislation. This is part of the Fit-for-55 package and will oblige shipowners to use sustainable fuels. When the legislation is introduced, it will only apply to 2 percent of the fuel used, but by 2050 it will possibly be 80 percent. Unfeasible without sufficient sustainable fuels.

In order to be able to realize the sustainability ambitions for aviation and maritime shipping, investments will have to be made in the production of sustainable fuels. Shipping is an important sector for the global economy, as it transports 90 percent of all goods. If we want to make this transport more sustainable in the future, it is crucial that shipping is supplied with sufficient sustainable fuel.

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