Cargill has opened its first state-of-the-art biodiesel plant in North Sea Port.
The $150 million facility opened its doors on 15 June and allows Cargill to take its first step in the production of advanced biodiesel.
The plant is said to produce up to 115,000 tons per year, equivalent to the annual consumption of 10,000 trucks or 150,000 cars. It will also create 20 new direct and 60 indirect jobs at the company’s existing Ghent facility.
“This investment in a completely new circular plant strengthens North Sea Port’s position in terms of alternative fuel production,” says North Sea Port CEO Daan Schalck.
The space is one of largest such facilities in Europe and can transform all kinds of waste liquid oils and fats into advanced biodiesel. These include cooking oils, tallow, and residues from the production of edible oils.
By doing so, the multinational food company hopes to achieve its aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting circular fuels.
“With this advanced waste treatment technology, we are offering an innovative solution that meets the global demand for renewable energy, respects environmental requirements and helps customers meet their greenhouse gas commitments”, said Alexis Cazin, Managing Director for Cargill Biodiesel & Carbon EMEA.
North Sea Port has also recently partnered the Port of Gothenburg to launch a network of medium-sized European ports.
Under the network, both parties look to exchange knowledge between similar ports and investigate further cooperate between them. It also aims to supports the flow of goods between both ports.
