Revolutionizing Sustainability: Successful Completion of the First All-Digital Green Methanol Shipment at Rotterdam Port

OCI Fuels, part of the Dutch fuel giant OCI Global, and Danish tech innovator ZeroNorth have successfully executed the inaugural fully digital delivery of green methanol at Rotterdam’s bustling port.As reported by industry sources, this groundbreaking delivery utilized ZeroNorth’s electronic bunker delivery note (eBDN) system, which eliminates paper usage and enhances efficiency throughout the process.

In this innovative approach, OCI Fuels supplied the green methanol that was transferred to a vessel operated by X-Press Feeders—a Singaporean autonomous carrier. The actual bunkering was managed by local barge operator UniBarge,ensuring a seamless operation.

The eBDN system replaces traditional paperwork with an electronic format that captures vital details like fuel type, quantity delivered, timing and location of transfer, supplier facts, and compliance declarations. This shift not only streamlines operations but also boosts transparency for all parties involved.

With features such as QR codes and digital signatures embedded in the platform, eBDN ensures secure and traceable delivery records while significantly cutting down on administrative tasks typically associated with manual documentation.

zeronorth highlighted in a recent LinkedIn update that this digital advancement reflects how the bunker sector is adapting to stricter regulations alongside a growing emphasis on cleaner fuels. They emphasized that tools like eBDN are pivotal in facilitating this transition.

According to nicolai Bendixen from ZeroNorth Bunker, we can expect more digital deliveries of green fuels in the future as industries adapt to new regulatory landscapes demanding greater transparency. He noted that innovations like eBDN are essential for meeting these evolving expectations.

Rotterdam stands out as Europe’s largest port and one of its foremost maritime centers due to its dedication to sustainable shipping solutions. The port has invested strategically in eco-friendly fuels and infrastructure—making it an ideal venue for such pioneering deliveries.

UniBarge played an essential role as the barge operator during this operation; they ensured safe transfer practices while adhering strictly to environmental safety standards. Handling option fuels like methanol requires specialized expertise—something UniBarge provided effectively throughout their operations.

X-Press Feeders is among several shipping companies exploring low-emission alternatives; green methanol sourced from renewable materials or captured CO2 presents itself as a viable marine fuel option capable of significantly lowering emissions while being compatible with existing ship engines—helping operators align with global IMO environmental goals.

Interestingly enough, rotterdam’s use of eBDN mirrors initiatives launched earlier in Singapore where 2023 marked their debut into digital bunkering solutions. Starting April 1st 2025 all bunker suppliers there will be mandated to adopt these digital systems automatically—a clear signpost towards future trends within maritime logistics worldwide.