Rotterdam, the Netherlands – September 12, 2025 – Beginning in September 2025, Van Oord, commissioned by Rijkswaterstaat, will undertake critical coastal maintenance work at Banjaard Beach on Noord-Beveland. The project involves depositing one million cubic meters of sand on and just in front of the beach using a trailing suction hopper dredger powered predominantly by Bio-LNG—marking the first time this sustainable marine fuel has been used for beach replenishment in the Netherlands.
Pioneering Sustainable Coastal Protection
In March 2025, Rijkswaterstaat awarded Van Oord the contracts for beach replenishment works at Heemskerk, Goeree Westkop, and Noord-Beveland as part of its Coastline Care programme. This initiative is focused on maintaining and strengthening the Dutch coastline through regular sand replenishment to protect against erosion and rising sea levels.
What sets this project apart is Van Oord’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. The trailing suction hopper dredger deployed for the Noord-Beveland work will run largely on Bio-LNG, a renewable fuel that significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional marine fuels.
The Bio-LNG Advantage
Bio-LNG is derived from sustainable bio-based feedstocks, such as organic household waste and agricultural residues. The fuel bunkered for this operation is certified under the ISCC EU certification system, ensuring it meets strict European sustainability criteria. By utilizing Bio-LNG, Van Oord significantly lowers the carbon footprint of the dredging operation, showcasing the potential for greener practices in maritime infrastructure projects.
Bio-LNG is emerging as a key tactical fuel that enables:
- Immediate carbon intensity reduction
- Compatibility with existing LNG-fueled vessels
- Lower methane slip when used with updated engine technology
- Enhanced regulatory compliance, especially in EU-linked projects
Supporting Van Oord’s Net-Zero Ambitions
Van Oord’s decarbonization roadmap is underpinned by its SBTi-approved targets, which align with the Paris Agreement goal to limit warming to well below 1.5°C. Key pillars of this strategy include:
- Fleet modernization: Introducing energy-efficient vessels and transitioning to alternative fuels
- Zero-emission equipment: Investment in electric and hybrid construction technologies
- Sustainable supply chains: Engaging clients, subcontractors, and suppliers through its Sustainable Supply Chain Programme
Through these measures, Van Oord is evolving from a traditional dredging and marine construction firm to a climate-aligned marine solutions provider.
By collaborating closely with Rijkswaterstaat and other stakeholders, Van Oord continues to develop innovative, sustainable solutions that contribute to the decarbonization of the maritime sector while delivering essential infrastructure projects.
Van Oord’s Bio-LNG-powered hopper dredger project at Noord-Beveland sets a new benchmark for sustainable coastal management, reinforcing the company’s leadership in maritime environmental stewardship.
About Van Oord
Van Oord is a leading international marine contractor specializing in dredging, marine construction, offshore wind, and infrastructure. Headquartered in Rotterdam, the company operates globally with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaborative project delivery. As the first marine contractor with SBTi-approved climate targets, Van Oord is actively reshaping the future of maritime operations through low-emission technology, alternative fuels, and sustainable partnerships.
Source Van Oord