London, UK – June 13, 2025 — In a breakthrough for sustainable marine fuel logistics, UK-based bunker operator John H. Whitaker (Tankers) Limited has become the first in the industry to secure certification for onboard blending of 100% Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) B100 aboard a conventional bunker tanker. The landmark approval, issued by Lloyd’s Register (LR) on behalf of the Isle of Man Flag Administration, enables Whitaker’s vessel Whitchampion to load, carry, and blend FAME B100 with petroleum-based marine fuels — all within the regulatory framework of the IBC Code and MARPOL Annex II.
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A Regulatory Breakthrough for Biofuel Bunkering
Until now, bunker tankers certified under MARPOL Annex I were restricted to carrying fuel blends containing no more than 30% FAME. Blends exceeding this threshold — including pure FAME — are governed under the International Bulk Chemical Code (IBC Code) and MARPOL Annex II, effectively excluding most conventional bunker tankers from transporting or blending mid-to-high bio-content fuels unless converted into full-fledged chemical tankers.
With this new certification, Whitchampion bridges the regulatory and operational gap between oil tankers and chemical tankers. It becomes the first LR-classed vessel to receive chemical certification to carry and blend FAME without undergoing a costly chemical tanker conversion.
The approval, which is authorized for use within UK coastal waters, is made possible through a Tri-Partite Agreement involving the Isle of Man Flag, the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UKMCA), and Lloyd’s Register.
Certification Built on Rigorous Risk-Based Approach
The certification process involved a comprehensive Gap Analysis and Risk Assessment by Lloyd’s Register, tailored to meet the safety and environmental compliance standards of the IBC Code and MARPOL Annex II. Based on this analysis, a framework of mitigation strategies was developed — including safety equipment specifications, operational controls, and emergency procedures — allowing for the secure transport and blending of FAME on board an Annex I-classed vessel.
This approach led to a series of flag-approved waivers and exemptions, enabling the tanker to carry chemical cargoes like FAME B100 without reclassification. Additionally, dedicated onboard training on FAME handling was delivered to Whitchampion’s crew, resulting in a Restricted FAME endorsement added to their existing Oil Tanker Dangerous Cargo Endorsements (DCEs) — a crucial step in ensuring safe crew operations.
Commercial and Strategic Implications
The successful certification is more than a technical milestone — it represents a scalable and commercially viable solution for integrating biofuels into the existing bunkering infrastructure, helping shipowners meet decarbonisation targets without the need for expensive fleet overhauls.
Tim Wilson, Principal Specialist for Fuels and Emissions at Lloyd’s Register, commented “This certification demonstrates a credible and commercially viable route for existing bunker tankers to participate in the energy transition. It sets a clear blueprint for others to follow.”
Jawwad Minhas, Lead Specialist in Chemical Certification at LR, added “Our methodology—rooted in gap analysis and targeted risk mitigation—offers confidence to all stakeholders navigating the complexities of fuel transition.”
Peter Howard, Technical Director at Whitaker Tankers, said “This certification is the result of focused determination from all involved and underlines Whitaker’s commitment to providing clients with the flexibility they need to meet their decarbonisation goals.”
A second Whitaker vessel, Whitchallenger, is currently undergoing the same certification process and is expected to be approved later this year, further expanding the operator’s ability to serve clients seeking low- and zero-carbon fuel solutions.
Biofuels and the Path Forward
This development aligns with the growing momentum around biofuel adoption in shipping, particularly in light of tightening international emissions regulations and increasing demand for sustainable marine fuels. As the industry looks to alternatives like FAME, methanol, and ammonia, the ability to use existing bunker tankers to handle and blend biofuels opens the door to faster, lower-cost deployment of greener fuel options.
To support this transition, Lloyd’s Register continues to provide in-depth resources through its “Fuel for Thought” initiative — an industry-leading series of reports and webinars covering biofuel characteristics, operational implications, quality, availability, and regulatory landscape. These materials serve as a reference point for shipowners and maritime professionals navigating the complexities of the fuel transition.
Conclusion
The Whitchampion’s certification marks a milestone in maritime biofuel logistics, enabling real-world applications of sustainable fuels without costly fleet conversions. As more shipowners explore biofuel options and regulatory pressure grows, this certification presents a practical, repeatable pathway for bunker operators worldwide.
Whitaker Tankers, with its forward-thinking approach and collaboration with Lloyd’s Register, is helping set the foundation for a more flexible and environmentally responsible bunkering future.
About John H. Whitaker Tankers Ltd
John H. Whitaker Tankers Ltd is a respected and internationally recognised fuel transportation company, operating a modern fleet of seagoing tankers across UK and European waters. The company is a trusted partner to many of the world’s leading oil companies, delivering marine fuel products with professionalism, efficiency, and integrity.
As an industry leader, Whitaker Tankers is known not only for operational excellence but for its firm commitment to safety and environmental protection. The company adheres to a strict zero-tolerance policy on pollution and places health, safety, security, and environmental stewardship (HSSE) at the core of all operations. Whitaker Tankers’ guiding principle is simple yet uncompromising: safety comes first — always.
With a long-standing reputation built on trust, service quality, and leadership, John H. Whitaker Tankers Ltd continues to play a vital role in supporting the global energy transition while maintaining its legacy of safety and excellence at sea.
About Lloyd’s Register (LR)
Lloyd’s Register (LR) is a global professional services group, known for its expertise in marine engineering, technology, and digital solutions. Founded over 260 years ago, LR provides classification and compliance services to the marine and offshore industries. It plays a leading role in helping the maritime sector transition to zero-emission technologies, offering solutions that support fleet and voyage optimization.
Source Lloyd’s Register