EcoCeres Inc., a prominent renewable fuel producer, and Euglena Co., Ltd., an innovative biotechnology leader, have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on November 18, 2024, to collaborate on advancing the use of SAFand hydrotreated vegetable oil in Japan. EcoCeres, known for supplying renewable fuels to global markets, produces SAF and HVO using proprietary technology at its facility, which has an annual production capacity of 350,000 tonnes and is certified to the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification standard. Additionally, the company is constructing a new SAF/HVO facility in Malaysia, designed for an annual capacity of 420,000 tonnes.
Euglena, pioneering SAF and renewable diesel fuel production in Japan under its “SUSTEO” brand, utilises waste cooking oil and microalgae (Euglena) oil as primary feedstocks. The company has established a robust distribution network spanning land, sea, and air transportation, and plans to enhance microalgae production to support future biofuel needs.
The partnership between EcoCeres and Euglena aims to foster the adoption of sustainable fuels within Japan’s aviation and transportation sectors, promoting a greener future both locally and globally. As demand for HVO in Japan rises rapidly, Euglena has imported neat HVO from EcoCeres and processed it to meet diesel specifications, thereby fulfilling customer requirements under the “SUSTEO” brand. Euglena has successfully supplied SUSTEO for use in diesel-powered vehicles, including those participating in races by Mazda Motor Corporation. Since 2023, all SUSTEO used in the Super Taikyu Series has been based on EcoCeres’ HVO, demonstrating its reliable performance. Most recently, SUSTEO (100 percent HVO) powered the MAZDA3 Bio concept in the ST-Q class of the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series final round at Fuji Speedway from November 15 to 17, 2024, showcasing performance on par with conventional diesel.
As the market for biofuels grows, ensuring a stable supply of SUSTEO has become crucial. This strategic alliance between EcoCeres and Euglena guarantees dependable access to HVO for Japanese customers, while their combined efforts will support the broad deployment of SAF, contributing to emissions reduction and the shift towards clean energy sources. Both companies are committed to leveraging their expertise, resources, and networks to drive innovation and research, accelerating the adoption of SAF and HVO and supporting Japan’s sustainability and environmental targets.
James Ni, CEO of EcoCeres, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are excited to partner with Euglena in this important endeavour to expand the use of sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel in Japan. Our hope is not only to fulfill the commitments outlined in this MOU but to exceed them, setting new standards for sustainability and inspiring others to join us on this important journey. By working together, we can make significant strides towards a more sustainable future for the aviation industry and beyond.”
Mitsuru Izumo, founder and president of Euglena, remarked, “Today, we have taken a big step towards contributing to Japan’s greenhouse gas reduction goal. ‘SUSTEO’ has moved from the introduction phase to continuous use and supply expansion. With the support of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, ‘SUSTEO’ is already being used in large heavy machinery at key redevelopment sites in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi, Otemachi, and Marunouchi areas, as well as in popular tourist buses. The future demand will only increase, and thanks to our strong partnership with EcoCeres, we can now provide clean energy in the desired amounts whenever customers need it.”
This collaboration represents a significant advancement in the availability and distribution of sustainable fuels in Japan, paving the way for broader adoption and environmental progress.
For more information visit www.ecoceres.com
