Hamburg, Germany | October 23, 2025 – In a major step toward fleet decarbonisation, GEFO Shipping Group has completed its inaugural biofuel bunkering, marking a key milestone in its sustainability journey. The Hamburg-based operator’s deep-sea tanker Gioconda is the first vessel in the GEFO fleet to run on B100 UCOME, a biodiesel derived entirely from used cooking oil.
The operation took place on 15 October in Rotterdam, with technical and logistical support from FincoEnergies, demonstrating a successful collaboration between the two companies.
A New Chapter in GEFO’s Energy Transition
The Gioconda’s switch to B100 UCOME (Used Cooking Oil Methyl Ester) highlights GEFO’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its fleet of inland and coastal tankers. Adopting this sustainable alternative fuel improves emissions performance while aligning with emerging European and global regulations, including FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS frameworks.
“This biofuel operation marks an important step forward in our sustainability journey,” GEFO Shipping Group said. “We are proud that Gioconda is now pioneering biofuel use within our fleet, paving the way for further sustainable operations.”
The successful trial reflects GEFO’s proactive approach to low-carbon operations, which includes investments in efficient propulsion systems, emission-reducing technologies, and alternative fuels.
Collaboration with FincoEnergies
FincoEnergies, a leading supplier of renewable fuels, provided B100 UCOME as a drop-in replacement for conventional marine gas oil (MGO). The biofuel requires no engine modifications while delivering significant CO₂ and lifecycle emissions reductions. GEFO praised FincoEnergies for their technical support, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships in scaling sustainable fuel adoption.
Pioneering a Sustainable Fleet Future
Founded in 1961 as Gesellschaft für Öltransporte (Company for Oil Transport Ltd), GEFO Shipping Group has grown from a Rhine-based inland operator into an international logistics and shipping company. Today, the fleet comprises approximately 150 modern coastal and inland vessels, transporting over 18 million metric tonnes of liquid bulk cargo annually, including chemical liquids, LPGs, liquid gases, mineral oils, and bunker fuels.
Sustainability and safety are central to GEFO’s operations, backed by a robust HSSEQ (Health, Safety, Security, Environment & Quality) culture. The company’s responsible operational approach and investment in low-emission technologies contributed to its recognition as one of Germany’s top 25 family-owned businesses by WirtschaftsWoche in 2021.
Biofuels: A Practical Step Toward Net Zero
B100 UCOME represents a practical, immediate pathway for shipowners to reduce carbon emissions without costly retrofits or newbuild investments. Produced entirely from waste feedstocks, such as used cooking oils, it avoids competition with food production while offering up to 90% lifecycle CO₂ reduction compared with fossil fuels.
For GEFO, this adoption complements broader efforts to enhance energy efficiency, regulatory compliance, and environmental performance across its fleet.
Charting the Path Forward
GEFO’s first biofuel bunkering lays the foundation for expanded trials and potential long-term integration of biofuels across more vessels. The company continues to explore low-emission solutions, from digital efficiency tools and propulsion optimisation to advanced alternative fuels, as part of its strategy to meet commercial and environmental targets.
As maritime regulations tighten and the energy transition accelerates, GEFO’s move positions it among European tanker operators taking tangible steps to reduce emissions and advance sustainable shipping practices.
About GEFO Shipping Group
Founded in 1961 and headquartered in Hamburg, GEFO Shipping Group operates approximately 150 coastal and inland vessels, specialising in the transport of chemical liquids, LPGs, liquid gases, and mineral oils. Handling over 18 million tonnes annually, GEFO combines operational excellence with a commitment to safety, environmental protection, and sustainable growth.
Source: GEFO Shipping Group