hvo renewable and sustainable diesel in a tank

HVO: renewable Diesel for a more sustainable future

In recent years, the transition toward more sustainable energy sources has driven the fuel industry to explore alternative solutions. One of the most innovative among them is HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) — a renewable diesel that offers a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions and a significantly lower environmental impact.
In this article, we’ll explore:
  1. What HVO is and how it’s produced
  2. Why HVO represents a sustainable alternative to fossil diesel
  3. The role of HVO in supporting the circular economy
What HVO is and how it’s produced

HVO is a renewable fuel produced through the hydrogenation of vegetable oils and waste fats.

This process removes impurities and oxygen, resulting in a product that is chemically similar to fossil diesel—but with enhanced performance and significantly lower pollutant emissions.

The raw materials used to produce HVO include:

  • Vegetable oils (such as rapeseed, soybean, and certified sustainable palm oil)
  • Used cooking oils from the food industry
  • Waste animal fats
  • Residues and by-products from the agri-food sector

Unlike traditional biodiesel (FAME – Fatty Acid Methyl Ester), HVO contains no esters, which makes it more stable over time, less susceptible to degradation, and fully compatible with existing diesel engines—without requiring any modifications.

Why HVO represents a sustainable alternative to fossil diesel

One of the key advantages of HVO is its contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Its sustainability benefits include:

  • Lower CO₂ emissions:

By using biomass and organic waste, HVO supports a more balanced carbon cycle compared to fossil fuels.

  • Reduced particulate and NOx emissions:

The hydrogenation process removes aromatic compounds and sulphur, leading to lower emissions of particulates and nitrogen oxides (NOx)—major contributors to air pollution.

  • Use of renewable resources:

HVO is produced from waste materials and by-products, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing deforestation associated with crop-based biofuels.

  • Compatibility with existing infrastructure:

It can be used in current diesel engines without modifications and blended with conventional diesel, enabling a smoother transition toward more sustainable fuel solutions.

The role of HVO in supporting the circular economy

HVO fits seamlessly into a circular economy model, where organic waste is repurposed to generate energy rather than being discarded. This approach not only reduces the volume of waste but also limits the consumption of new natural resources, enhancing the overall sustainability of the supply chain.

As a readily available and sustainable alternative to conventional diesel, HVO offers a practical solution to lowering the environmental impact of the transport sector.
In a context of growing commitment to decarbonisation and environmental responsibility, HVO is emerging as a key player in the ongoing energy transition.