Arkas Bunker and DB Tarımsal Enerji presented Turkey’s integrated waste-to-fuel biofuel system at a technical seminar hosted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London.

The companies took part in the Maritime Biofuels Technical Seminar at IMO headquarters under the Future Fuels and Technology (FFT) Project, with participation coordinated by Turkey’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure on behalf of the Biofuel Industry Association.

Arkas Bunker sustainability manager Erdinç Altun and DB Tarımsal Enerji corporate communications and sustainability manager Pınar Kılınç delivered a joint presentation titled 'Unlocking the Potential Beyond Compliance', outlining a certified biofuel ecosystem that converts domestic waste vegetable oils into marine fuel.

The model is built around ISCC-EU certified supply chains, operational transparency and data-led traceability. The companies said the structure was designed not only to meet regulatory requirements but also to support long-term sustainability and uninterrupted operations.

“Sustainability is not just a framework to comply with for Arkas Bunker; it is a fundamental part of operational excellence and long-term value creation,” Altun said.

Arkas Bunker highlighted its drop-in biofuel bunkering operations, which can be carried out using existing vessel infrastructure without technical modifications. Altun said this flexibility offers ship operators a practical and cost-effective option for short-term carbon reduction.

“Our drop-in biofuel solutions, compatible with existing infrastructure, enable the sector to participate in the transformation process from today,” he said.

DB Tarımsal Enerji’s ISCC-EU certified supply and production infrastructure converts domestic waste vegetable oils into marine fuel. According to Kılınç, the project involved two years of research and development work.

“The sustainable maritime fuel produced in accordance with international sustainability standards has a carbon emission reduction potential of 33.7% compared to fossil fuels,” Kılınç said. “This production model enables the national maritime sector to gain competitive strength against international regulations, while strengthening Turkey’s strategic position in the low-carbon fuel supply chain.”

She added: “As DB Tarımsal Enerji, we believe that a production model focused on transparency, traceability and certification creates value that goes beyond global standards today.”

During bilateral discussions held alongside the seminar, the companies said their approach was viewed as supporting Turkey’s potential development as a biofuel bunkering hub. Feedback from international delegates was also described as recognising Arkas Bunker’s operational capability in sustainable shipping.

Both firms said they will continue developing marine fuel solutions aligned with near-term industry needs and longer-term 2030–2050 decarbonisation goals.