NYK accelerates use of biofuels in light of net-zero emission targets
NYK has highlighted on its “Progress Report 2025 – NYK Group Decarbonization Story” updates on initiatives toward Net-Zero GHG emissions by 2050, reporting increased use of biofuels.
In recent years, the maritime decarbonization landscape has shifted significantly, driven by evolving regulatory discussions at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The report outlines NYK Group’s progress in advancing its decarbonization strategy and the measures being taken to address the challenges associated with achieving its goals.
GHG reduction progress
Achieved 11.8% reduction in Scope 1 + 2 emissions from FY2021
Decreasing factors: Energy-saving devices, slow steaming, expanded use of biofuels, replacement with newbuilds, including alternative-fuel vessels
Increasing factors: Increased voyage distances due to inability to transit the Suez Canal (geopolitical issues)
Expanded Scope 3 emissions reporting
― Expanded reporting to include all major consolidated subsidiaries and equity-method affiliates
― Collected emissions data across all Scope 3 categories
― Completed disclosure one year earlier than the original plan
Towards achieving the Scope 1 + 2 2030 and 2050 targets
- 2030 Target: 45% reduction by energy efficiency and low-carbon fuels
The medium-term management plan initially set a target to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions for the NYK Group by 30% compared to FY2021 by FY2030. This target was updated in the NDS, adding an additional 15% reduction.
- 2050 Target: Net zero by fuel conversion and CDRs
The transition to alternative fuels will be accelerated, together with carbon dioxide removal (CDR) initiatives, to achieve net-zero emissions.
Expansion of biofuels
NYK reports a steady increase on the use of biofuels. This effort in FY2024 is equivalent to a reduction of 180,000 tons of CO2 equivalent. The company has launched long-term trials aimed at full-scale implementation of biofuel usage.
As a result, NYK’s vessels used 251,017 tons of B24, a blended marine fuel containing 24% second-generation fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) derived from nonfood sources and certified under ISCC.
This marks a significant increase over the 6,287 tons used in fiscal year 2023. Moreover, the company implemented initiatives to address challenges related to the long-term safe use of biofuels.
Initiation of continuous use of bio-LNG fuel
Since June 2025, NYK has commenced the continuous use of bio-LNG fuel on its LNG-powered car carriers. The bio-LNG fuel is supplied by Titan Supply B.V. at the Port of Zeebrugge in Belgium. Starting with the supply to two vessels—Daisy Leader in June and Sumire Leader in July—the company will integrate LNG biofuel into its routine operations.
This supply is based on the mass-balance method, enabling significant GHG reductions on a well-to-wake basis. Its sustainability is verified through ISCC-EU certification, and full traceability is ensured.
Benefits of dual-fuel fleet deployment
- Enhances fuel resilience
Dual-fuel vessels increase fuel options, providing resilience amid uncertain supply and price conditions.
- Enables phased GHG reductions
In the short and medium terms, dual-fuel vessels can utilize readily available lowcarbon fuels; in the long term, they enable deeper decarbonization through e-fuels and biofuels with lower GHG intensity
- Maintains operational flexibility
When alternative fuels are unavailable, vessels can operate on heavy fuel oil or biodiesel, ensuring routing freedom while maximizing GHG reductions where alternatives are accessible.
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NYK accelerates use of biofuels in light of net-zero emission targets, source
