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Mercantile & Maritime Group launches ME’s largest Biofuel Facility
Mercantile & Maritime Group, a global provider of energy and logistics, specialising in the physical trading of oil and gas, as well as a proven advisory service provider, announces the expansion of its fully owned and operated facility, MENA Terminals in Fujairah, to launch a pioneering biofuel processing plant valued at AED 2.2 billion. This expansion highlights the group’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and supports the UAE’s goal of leading the way toward a greener future. The biofuel facility at MENA Terminals will be expanded by over 1 million square feet and is set for completion by 2026. Once operational, it will produce up to 150 million litres of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) annually, representing nearly 10% of current global SAF production. This marks a significant milestone for sustainable energy in the Middle East and aligns with the UAE’s goals of reducing carbon emissions and its ambition to become a global hub for low-carbon aviation fuel. In his comments, Murtaza Lakhani, CEO of Mercantile & Maritime said: “This expansion is a significant step forward for Mercantile & Maritime Group and sustainable energy across the UAE. We are deeply grateful to the UAE’s wise leadership and His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, for his enduring support and vision, which has been pivotal in making this milestone possible. Fujairah’s strategic location and forward-thinking leadership make it an ideal home for our biofuel facility at MENA Terminals, the largest of its kind in the Middle East, and our investment in this facility reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility. In line with the ‘UAE Net Zero 2050’ initiative, we are proud to contribute to a sustainable future for the UAE, and the wider region.” “By producing SAF locally, we are reducing the nation’s reliance on imports, thereby lessening carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact across the entire supply chain, including traditional shipping methods. Alternatively, we will utilize the local rail network to transport SAF across the UAE, with future plans for regional distribution. The SAF processing plant will integrate advanced artificial intelligence to optimise refinery operations and maintenance. Additionally, the facility will adhere to global standards set by IATA, CORSIA, and RED III, supporting the highest levels of environmental compliance.” Added Lakhani. MENA Terminals is present at ADIPEC 2024, held from 4 – 7 November at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Visitors are invited to experience the unveiling of the new facility at MENA Terminals stand in Hall 1, where a 3D model will be displayed.
AIDA Cruises continues tests on biofuels
AIDA Cruises continues to perform tests using biofuels to evaluate their feasibility for regular ship operations, as well as their potential for future use. Most recently, the German cruise line refueled its flagship AIDAprima cruise vessel entirely with renewable Bio Marine Fuel (BMF 100) for the first time. After refueling in Rotterdam, AIDAprima will test the new biofuel during regular ship operations on upcoming voyages from Hamburg through the fjords of Norway. The fuel performance will help determine its potential for future use across the AIDA fleet. Fully compounded from advanced feedstocks organic waste or residue, BMF 100 is completely sustainable and is supplied by VARO Energy. The use of BMF 100 in cruise operations is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 85 percent compared to conventional fossil fuels. Working to identify viable solutions According to AIA Cruises president Felix Eichhorn, the company continues its drive to identify advanced fuels and technologies that may be used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout its operations. Eichhorn said: “In our search for the fuel mix of the future, we have been gathering valuable experience through trials using various biofuels since 2022, and we continue to closely cooperate with experts from industry and science to develop new approaches to continuously reduce emissions.” He added that a growing supply of biofuels or similar low-carbon alternatives is necessary for a sustainable future. These essentially need to be available globally at scale and priced reasonably enough. A long-term investment Over the years, AIDA Cruises invested a great deal towards a sustainable future for cruising as part of its decarbonisation strategy. In addition to trialling biofuels, the cruise line also uses liquefied natural gas (LNG) to deliver immediate greenhouse gas emission reductions in the absence of market-ready zero-emission maritime fuels. The line is also expanding its use of alternative energy sources such as shore power to operate ships in port, as well as onboard batteries to store extra energy for use during peak engine operation to reduce fuel use. Together with various partners, the cruise company is working intensively on further solutions for using renewable and synthetic fuels.
Qantas Joins Global Alliance to Accelerate Aviation Biofuel Production
Qantas has joined forces with a consortium of airlines, an aircraft manufacturer, and energy and financing companies to help accelerate the global production of aviation biofuel. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Financing Alliance (SAFFA) fund has been formed with anchor investor Airbus, Air France-KLM, Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc., BNP Paribas, Associated Energy Group, and Burnham Sterling Asset Management (as fund manager). The initial partners have committed around $US200 million, with Qantas initially committing US$50 million (AU$75 million) from its Climate Fund, which was established in 2023 and includes the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) partnership with Airbus. The Power of SAF SAF is one of the most effective tools airlines use to reduce emissions. With low—and zero-emissions aviation technology still decades away, the demand for SAF, both locally and globally, far outstrips supply. Through SAFFA, the partners will invest in SAF technology development and production projects. The initial focus will be on opportunities to repurpose existing infrastructure. Investments will initially be focused in the United States but are expected to be diversified across various SAF production pathways and regions in time. Qantas and the SAFFA partners will also have opportunities to enter into priority offtake contracts for the supply of SAF produced through the supported projects. First Investment The fund made its first investment in April 2024 in US-based technology company Crysalis Biosciences. The company aims to renew the chemical manufacturing infrastructure with innovative fuel and chemical production technologies. It has successfully acquired and renovated an ethanol plant in Illinois that was closed in 2019. The plant has now received approval to resume operations to produce low-carbon intensity SAF and biochemicals. A Word from the CEO Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said SAFFA would invest in technologically mature projects, focusing on commercial viability, to help improve access to and drive down the cost of low-carbon fuels. “Aviation is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise, and it’s going to take partnerships across industries like this to help close the gap between supply and demand,” Ms Hudson said. “The current imbalance is one of the reasons SAF comes at a significant premium compared to jet kerosene, so the industry must invest now in scaling production.” Looking Ahead Separate from its investment in SAFFA, Qantas is evaluating several additional domestic investment opportunities from its Climate Fund, which it expects to finalise in the coming months. Qantas has invested in a Queensland biofuel production facility being developed by Jet Zero Australia in partnership with leading sustainable aviation fuel technology company LanzaJet. Earlier this year, Jet Zero Australia achieved a significant milestone by successfully raising A$29 million in its second round of funding. Qantas has committed to using 10 per cent SAF in the Group’s fuel mix by 2030 and approximately 60 per cent by 2050. Since 2022, Qantas has purchased around 10 million litres of SAF out of London per annum and has contracts in place for 20 million litres out of California. Qantas has also made a number of policy recommendations to the Australian government that would help kickstart a domestic SAF industry in Australia, drive job creation, fuel security and economic growth. This forms part of the ~AU$80 million Qantas disclosed it had committed from its Climate Fund in its Half Year Results. The formation of SAFFA and Qantas’ commitment to it marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry’s journey towards sustainability. It demonstrates how collaboration and investment can drive change and make a real impact on reducing emissions.
Push for change: Finnair flies first biofuel flights
Finnair has announced that it will fly the first biofuel flights backed by its “Push for change” carbon decreasing initiative. The first flight took off on 5 August and the second flight will take off on 7 August. These two Finnair flights departing San Francisco Airport bound for Helsinki, Finland, are being flown with a biofuel mix of 12%, reducing the total C02 emissions for the flight by approximately 32 tons. “The launch of our Push for Change initiative was an important step for Finnair in order to provide our customers with the opportunity to conveniently offset or decrease the emissions from their travel,” said Arja Suominen, senior vice president of communications and corporate responsibility at Finnair. “We have been pleased with the early phases of the initiative so far and we are now moving forward to fly our two first biofuel flights supported entirely by the push for change contributions.” Finnair’s biofuels partners in San Francisco are SkyNRG and World Energy; Shell Aviation has provided logistics and supply chain support for the project. The sustainable biofuel is produced from used cooking oil in California, which does not compete with food production or the agriculture industry.
Saudi Arabia To Host Trio of Co-located Trade Events
Riyadh will become the epicentre of a series of trade-only exhibitions next month when dmg events organises the inaugural Kids & Toys Expo Saudi Arabia, Stationery & Paper Expo Saudi Arabia, and Gifts & Homeware Expo Saudi Arabia. All three shows will be co-located under one roof at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre from 16-18 September, providing attendees with a comprehensive platform for all their sourcing needs. The debutant trio represents the Kingdom’s first full-service B2B sourcing hub, giving local distributors and traders, retailers and resellers, government stakeholders, mega project developers, entrepreneurs, and investors, the opportunity to meet more than 150 regional and global exhibitors. Among the confirmed exhibitors are representatives from 23 countries, including four with their own major national pavilion: China, Türkiye, and Hong Kong. The co-location also offers buyers the opportunity to consolidate multiple procurement needs in a single visit, streamlining supply chains and reducing sourcing time while fuelling strategic partnerships that support Vision 2030 goals. “This represents something of a marketplace revolution,” said Jasmeet Bakshi, Vice President, Design and Hospitality at dmg events. “For the first time, three dedicated B2B exhibitions will run side-by-side at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, creating a sourcing super-hub designed to transform how Saudi businesses buy, connect, and grow. “By co-locating these specialised events, we are enabling buyers to meet world-class suppliers, discover market-ready innovations, and forge valuable partnerships in a single visit. The concept is simple but powerful: Bring the right people and the right products together in one place, and business will happen faster. For busy buyers, this means less travel, less time lost, and more strategic sourcing.” Three Industries, One Destination for Business Growth At the Kids & Toys Expo Saudi Arabia – the Kingdom’s first trade event uniting the full kids and toys ecosystem from educational to hi-tech and digital children’s products – visitors will step into a world of creativity, innovation, and imagination. With a heavily import-dependent market forecast to grow 12 per cent annually to reach a value of US$1.4 billion by 2030, the Kingdom’s demand for high-quality, innovative toys is soaring. From Global brands such as Mattel, Hasbro, Disney, Crayola and Spinmaster to AI toy leader Anki Toys and leading local players such as Samaco Toys, Al Shula, Supreme Trading, Hobbies Castle, the show will reveal the trends shaping the future of play. “This exhibition has the power to be a gateway to market transformation by being a springboard for local manufacturing and strategic partnerships,” added Bakshi. The Stationery & Paper Expo Saudi Arabia will unveil and celebrate the tools that power schools and offices, from sustainable paper products and smart office solutions to premium writing instruments from brand leaders including Abo Moati, Pilot Pens, Linc Limited, the BNB Group, and DOMS. Highlighting artisanry, innovative designs, and corporate gifting, the show is a window into how tradition meets innovation in an industry where creativity is increasingly both physical and digital. “Stationary and Paper Expo Saudi Arabia promises to be a hub for idea empowerment through paper, where innovation and technology are answering sector-wide demand for sustainability and smart office solutions,” said Bakshi. “Visitors can look forward to seeing the latest in eco-friendly notebooks, digital writing tools, and smart organisation systems, as well as leveraging the synergy with the co-located shows for enhanced networking and efficiency.” Completing the trio is the Gifts & Homeware Expo Saudi Arabia, a curated display of corporate gifting solutions, artisan crafts, and lifestyle products. Confirmed exhibitors include Event Gifts, Alpha Arts, Rooh, Green Point, Abreeze, Sima Creative and Crystal Arc, which will unwrap exceptional business opportunities. “This is a timely event to service the rising disposable income in a Kingdom experiencing robust growth in retail, home décor and gifting,” added Bakshi. “Visitors will also be able to experience products first-hand, network and learn via a programme of interactive demos, and business and panel sessions.” Beyond the Show Floor – The Creative Circle Running alongside the exhibitions, The Creative Circle is a dynamic two-day conference that will bring together more than 25 industry leaders for high-impact discussions and trend analysis. Attendees will to have access to various skill-building features – including a special collaboration with Artse, the leading marketplace for works by some of the world’s best emerging and established artists. Designed as a fast-paced forum to spark ideas and foster collaboration, Creative Circle attendees will gain an insider’s perspective into the trends shaping the region’s retail, homeware, and gifting sectors via fast-paced panels, expert-led discussions. “The Creative Circle is a business accelerator for the Kingdom, a platform for growth,” said Bakshi. “It adds another layer of opportunity by offering exclusive insights on trends, consumer behaviour, and creative strategies that can directly shape business for years to come.” Global Reach, Local Impact With more than 5,000 visitors expected, the expos are tailored exclusively for B2B buyers — from large retailers and corporate procurement teams to boutique wholesalers and e-commerce entrepreneurs. Products displayed are hand-selected for the Saudi market, ensuring they meet local business needs and consumer preferences. “Sure, this sourcing cluster is focused on bringing products to Saudi Arabia, yet it’s also strongly focused on aligning with Vision 2030 through its encouragement of local manufacturing, boosting retail competitiveness, and positioning the Kingdom as a sourcing powerhouse in the region,” added Bakshi. “Every product on display is hand-selected for the Saudi market, ensuring cultural relevance and immediate business potential.” Organiser dmg events is also ensuring the three expos reflect global best practice in sustainability. Plastic-free badges and cups, replacing single-use plastic bottles with glass, and donating used food to workers are some of the visible steps attendees may notice next month. Meanwhile, QR code-driven marketing, reusable exhibition structures, and biofuel-powered logistics all ensure the shows are designed with environmental responsibility in mind.
Guided vacation firm Trafalgar presents its 2024 Impact Report
The Travel Corporation (TTC)’s guided vacation company Trafalgar continues to lay the foundation for transparency and accountability within the travel industry by advocating for a balance of tourism that provides value and support for local communities. The release of its 2024 Impact Report showcases the culmination of Trafalgar's efforts against its five-year sustainability strategy, the achievement of seven of its goals, as well as a demonstration of its ongoing commitment to addressing overtourism, reaching net zero, responsible consumption and production, and diversity, equity and inclusion. According to TTC chief sustainability officer Sharon Guihan: “As travellers return in greater numbers, the conversation must shift from growth to balance, a change we have been advocating for at TTC. That is why, across our brands, we are taking meaningful steps to reduce pressure on overcrowded destinations and to ensure our trips bring benefit, not burden.” Relevant findings from 2024 The brand's continuous efforts to encourage responsible travel and mitigate pressure on overcrowded destinations have achieved the following, as reported in the 2024 Impact Report: 85 percent of itineraries include at Least One Local Dining Experience. By prioritizing local and organic dining experiences, Trafalgar supports sustainable agriculture, preserves local food systems, and promotes local businesses. On many of Trafalgar's itineraries, travellers will participate in a Be My Guest Experience and meet with locals to break bread while learning about traditional cuisine and gaining new perspectives. On Classic Japan, guests have lunch with a local farmer and their family on a traditional tea plantation in the Nara area, to gain insights into their way of life. On Best of France, guests meet with Alexandra and Beatrice at their 17th-century farm, Domaine de la Giraudere, and learn about how they produce some of the region's famous goat cheese while they enjoy a traditional Tourangelle dinner. Achieved emissions reductions while actively engaging the tourism supply chain, on Trafalgar's goal to reach net zero GHG emissions by 2050 from a 2019 baseline year. As TTC's largest brand, Trafalgar has led the way in the group's efforts to curb carbon emissions. Specifically, TTC has reduced Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 23 percent and Scope 3 emissions by 20 percent from a 2019 baseline year. Through its net zero roadmap, the business is prioritizing biofuels and actively engaging its supply chain to enable the sector to tackle tourism emissions through collaboration. 2024 saw Trafalgar and sister brands launch its Partner Sustainability Hub, showcasing guidance and tools designed to enable a more sustainable supply chain. Further proof of the group's commitment is its investment of $353,307 in decarbonization projects across its business via the industry-first Carbon Fund in 2024, for a total of over $2.23 million invested since the Carbon Fund began implementation in 2023. 98 percent of Trafalgar itineraries include at Least One MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience. These immersive and impactful experiences are selected for the positive social or environmental benefits they have for the people and places that Trafalgar takes its guests. They're identified for how they actively advance at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Examples of these experiences include visiting the award-winning organic vineyard Vale da Capucha and sampling its organic and biodynamic wines, which support the UN SDG of Responsible Consumption and Production, as featured on Best of Portugal. On Best of Scotland, guests will meet with a conservation expert in the Scottish Highlands and learn about the powerful place of nature in Gaelic culture and the reintroduction of native tree species such as the Caledonian Pine at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. Implementing a systemic approach to sustainable travel According to Guihan: “What we need is a systemic approach, and so I'd like to be clear: we support destination-led approaches. We believe that thoughtful, community-informed policies are essential to preserving the very qualities that draw travellers in the first place.” Guihan added that she understands the value that tourism can bring to communities when managed in partnership with key stakeholders. As she puts it: “Ultimately, tourism shouldn't happen to a community; it should happen with them. And so, we not only welcome collaboration with governments, destination management organizations, and local leaders to build smart frameworks that ensure tourism delivers real value, limits harm and supports communities, we are seeking it out. If the past few years have taught us anything, it's that tourism must evolve proactively, transparently, and together.”
Trafalgar releases its latest impact report
Global guided vacation company Trafalgar continues to lay the foundation for transparency and accountability within the travel industry by advocating for a balance of tourism that provides value and support for local communities. The release of its 2024 Impact Report showcases the culmination of Trafalgar’s efforts against its five-year sustainability strategy, the achievement of seven of its goals, as well as a demonstration of its ongoing commitment to addressing overtourism, reaching net zero, responsible consumption and production, and diversity, equity and inclusion. Sharon Guihan, chief sustainability officer for Trafalgar’s parent firm The Travel Corporation (TTC), said: “As travellers return in greater numbers, the conversation must shift from growth to balance, a change we have been advocating for at TTC. That is why, across our brands, we are taking meaningful steps to reduce pressure on overcrowded destinations and to ensure our trips bring benefit, not burden.” Relevant findings The brand’s continuous efforts to encourage responsible travel and mitigate pressure on overcrowded destinations have achieved the following, as reported in the 2024 Impact Report: 85 percent of itineraries include at least one local dining experience By prioritizing local and organic dining experiences, Trafalgar supports sustainable agriculture, preserves local food systems, and promotes local businesses. On many of Trafalgar’s itineraries, travellers will participate in a Be My Guest Experience and meet with locals to break bread while learning about traditional cuisine and gaining new perspectives. On Classic Japan, guests have lunch with a local farmer and their family on a traditional tea plantation in the Nara area, to gain insights into their way of life. On Best of France, guests meet with Alexandra and Beatrice at their 17th-century farm, Domaine de la Giraudere, and learn about how they produce some of the region’s famous goat cheese while they enjoy a traditional Tourangelle dinner. Achieved emissions reductions while actively engaging the tourism supply chain in pursuit of its zero-emissions targets As TTC’s largest brand, Trafalgar has led the way in the group's efforts to curb carbon emissions. Specifically, TTC has reduced Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 23% and Scope 3 emissions by 20 percent from a 2019 baseline year. Through its net zero roadmap, the business is prioritizing biofuels and actively engaging its supply chain to enable the sector to tackle tourism emissions through collaboration. 2024 saw Trafalgar and sister brands launch its Partner Sustainability Hub, showcasing guidance and tools designed to enable a more sustainable supply chain. Further proof of the group’s commitment is its investment of $353,307 in decarbonization projects across its business via the industry-first Carbon Fund in 2024, for a total of over $2.23 million invested since the Carbon Fund began implementation in 2023. 98 percent of Trafalgar itineraries include at least one Make Travel Matter experience These immersive and impactful experiences are selected for the positive social or environmental benefits they have for the people and places that Trafalgar takes its guests. They’re identified for how they actively advance at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Examples of these experiences include visiting the award-winning organic vineyard Vale da Capucha and sampling its organic and biodynamic wines, which support the UN SDG of Responsible Consumption and Production, as featured on Best of Portugal. On Best of Scotland, guests will meet with a conservation expert in the Scottish Highlands and learn about the powerful place of nature in Gaelic culture and the reintroduction of native tree species such as the Caledonian Pine at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. Taking a destination-led approach According to Guihan: “What we need is a systemic approach, and so I’d like to be clear: we support destination-led approaches. We believe that thoughtful, community-informed policies are essential to preserving the very qualities that draw travellers in the first place.” She added that the value that tourism can bring to communities when managed in partnership with key stakeholders, as, ultimately, tourism shouldn’t happen to a community; it should happen with them. Guihan continued with: “We not only welcome collaboration with governments, destination management organizations, and local leaders to build smart frameworks that ensure tourism delivers real value, limits harm and supports communities, we are seeking it out. If the past few years have taught us anything, it's that tourism must evolve proactively, transparently, and together.”
IATA: Policy issues could compromise SAF production
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has pointed out that government mandates and policy shortfalls could compromise both the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across the globe. This realisation came as IATA announced on Sunday, 1st June, that it expects SAF production to reach two million tonnes (Mt) (2.5 billion liters) or 0.7 percent of airlines’ total fuel consumption in 2025. IATA director-general Willie Walsh said: “While it is encouraging that SAF production is expected to double to two million tonnes in 2025, that is just 0.7 percent of aviation’s total fuel needs, and even that relatively small amount will add $4.4 billion globally to the fuel bill. The pace of progress in ramping up production and gaining efficiencies to reduce costs must accelerate.” Mandates are part of the problem Most SAF is now heading toward Europe, where the EU and UK mandates kicked in at the beginning of this year. Unacceptably, the cost of SAF to airlines has now doubled in Europe because of compliance fees that SAF producers or suppliers are charging. For the expected one million tonnes of SAF that will be purchased to meet the European mandates in 2025, the expected cost at current market prices is $1.2 billion. Compliance fees are estimated to add an additional $1.7 billion on top of market prices, an amount that could have abated an additional 3.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions. Instead of promoting the use of SAF, Europe’s SAF mandates have made SAF five times more costly than conventional jet fuel. Walsh declared: “This highlights the problem with the implementation of mandates before there are sufficient market conditions and before safeguards are in place against unreasonable market practices that raise the cost of decarbonization. Raising the cost of the energy transition that is already estimated to be a staggering $4.7 trillion should not be the aim or the result of decarbonization policies. Europe needs to realize that its approach is not working and find another way.” How IATA is helping build the global SAF market To support the development of a global SAF market, IATA has worked on two initiatives: A SAF registry managed by the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) that brings a transparent and standardized system for tracking SAF purchases, usage and associated emissions reductions in compliance with international regulations such as Carbon Offsetting Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. The SAF Matchmaker that will facilitate SAF procurement by matching airline requests for SAF with supply offers. What needs to be done IATA urges governments to focus on three areas: Creating more effective policies. Eliminating the disadvantage that renewable energy producers face compared with big oil is necessary to scale renewable energy production in general and SAF production in particular. This includes redirecting a portion of the $1 trillion in subsidies that governments globally grant for fossil fuel. Develop a comprehensive approach to energy policy that includes SAF. Firstly, advancing SAF production requires an increase in renewable energy production from which SAF is derived. Secondly, it also requires policies to ensure SAF is allocated an appropriate portion of renewable energy production. A holistic approach should support joint use of infrastructure, co-production and other measures that will benefit the energy transition for aviation and for all other economic sectors. Ensure the success of CORSIA as the sole market-based mechanism to address international aviation’s CO2 emissions. IATA urges governments to make Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) available to airlines. To date Guyana is the only state to have made their carbon credits available for airlines to purchase and claim against their CORSIA obligations. What role does India play in this context? India, one of the emerging economies on the world stage today, is the third-largest oil user after the US and China. The South Asian nation launched the Global Biofuels Alliance to position biofuels as a key to energy transition and economic growth. This includes a target for two percent SAF blending for international flights by 2028 with enabling policies such as guaranteed pricing, capital support for new projects, and technical standards. IATA will be working with the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) and Praj Industries Limited, to provide guidance on global best practices for life cycle assessment of the use of feedstocks in the country. As the third-largest global civil aviation market, India can strengthen its leadership in biofuels with the accelerated adoption of SAF through progressive policies.
VIVA Cruises christens its new vessel VIVA ENJOY
River cruise line VIVA Cruises christened its newest ship, the VIVA ENJOY, at its home port of Düsseldorf on Tuesday, 14th January. With a festive ceremony and many good wishes from guests, VIVA Cruises’ third new build ship is set to offer exciting itineraries on the Rhine, Danube and beyond. VIVA Cruises chief executive Andrea Kruse said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the christening of our third new build ship today. This milestone marks another significant step in our journey to provide exceptional river cruising experiences. VIVA ENJOY, with its modern and premium amenities, creates unforgettable journeys along the beautiful rivers of Europe.” Award-winning UK cruise writer Jeannine Williamson was given the honour of being VIVA ENJOY’s godmother, a gesture that shows VIVA Cruises’ commitment to its growing English-speaking audience and the global market. VIVA ENJOY’s christening saw more than 200 globally invited guests as well as Düsseldorf passers-by watching on from ashore, to celebrate the launch. The VIVA Cruises team welcomed guests on board the new ship for its christening festivities. The new ship will connect Amsterdam, Budapest and Vienna for the first time in 2025 with new 7-, 10-, and 14-day itineraries. In addition, VIVA ENJOY will feature one-week trips from Frankfurt to Amsterdam, offering options for all travellers keen to explore the best Europe has to offer. Sophisticated and sustainable VIVA TWO, VIVA ENJOY will offer an elevated experience for guests, including an extra multi-purpose treatment room, as well as three restaurants RIVERSIDE, MOMENTS and VIVA’s Bistro. The ship also complies with the gold standard of the international Green Award, highlighting VIVA Cruises’ commitment to proactivity and protecting the environment. As Kruse puts it: “At VIVA Cruises, we are devoted to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every voyage with us is a truly enjoyable experience.” In line with VIVA Cruises’ commitment to sustainability, VIVA ENJOY employs eco-friendly technologies, including the use of sulphur-free GTL and biofuels, responsible route planning and reliance on shore power whenever possible. These energy-efficient practices meet the requirements of the Green Award certification, which recognises the use of sustainable technologies and quality measures. Comfort on the water VIVA ENJOY boasts 95 stylish cabins, including eight suites, spread across three decks which can accommodate up to 190 passengers., and most of the cabins feature French balconies. At the same time, the vessel features three restaurants, an open-plan lounge, a spacious sun deck and a fitness and wellness area, creating a floating premium hotel experience with a modern look and feel-good ambiance. There is also a pool on the sun deck and free rental bicycles available for guests.
dnata earns IEnvA
dnata has become the first ground handler in Europe to receive the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) environmental management certification (IEnvA) Jan van Anrooy, managing director, dnata Netherlands, said: “We are proud to be the first ground handler to earn the prestigious IEnvA certification in Europe. This accomplishment reflects our team’s dedication to environmental efficiency and our consistent efforts to contribute to dnata’s global decarbonisation journey. We will continue investing in infrastructure, equipment and process improvement to further reduce our environmental footprint.” Rafael Schvartzman, regional vice president Europe, IATA, said: “We congratulate dnata Netherlands on becoming the first ground and cargo handler in Europe to achieve full IEnvA registration. This significant milestone demonstrates dnata Schiphol’s commitment to sustainable aviation and environmental excellence. By adhering to global environmental standards and best practices, dnata Schiphol is setting a strong example for the industry. We look forward to working together to further advance sustainable aviation practices.” IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance. IATA’s comprehensive evaluation rigorously assessed dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). Consistent investments in operations to enhance environmental efficiency In recent years, dnata Netherlands has significantly invested in the electrification of its ground handling fleet to reduce emissions. Currently, more than 70% of its ground support equipment fleet is powered by electricity or solar energy, with the remainder operating on 100% Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO100) biofuel. dnata’s newest facility, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, was also designed with a laser focus on sustainability. Scheduled to open in 2025, the facility will be equipped with solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and air source heat pumps. The cargo centre will be BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certified. dnata Netherlands: a leading ground and cargo services provider at Amsterdam Schiphol dnata is a leading provider of ground and cargo handling services in Amsterdam. It serves 37 airlines with a team of 1,000 dedicated aviation professionals, who handle 10,000 flights and move 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually. Significant improvement in environmental performance globally Globally, dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body. In addition to The Netherlands, dnata also earned the IEnvA certification for its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
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