Arcadis’ entry into KLM’s Corporate Biofuel Programme fits in with the organisation’s aim to make its business operations more sustainable. The organisation has already invested in the relocation of its offices so they are closer to major train stations. Its offices are becoming increasingly sustainable. For example, discarded fishing nets have been incorporated into the carpeting, and the coffee chain is circular. Arcadis is also stimulating its staff through its sustainable mobility policy.
"Renewable biofuel contributes significantly to making air travel more sustainable. Unfortunately, sustainable biofuels are still two to three times more expensive than fossil jet fuel. KLM is trying to stimulate the market, be we cannot do it alone. We need the support of businesses and other airlines. For this reason, we are extremely pleased with Arcadis’ investment. Together with them and the other partners in the Corporate Biofuel Programme, we are taking a step forward in making civil aviation more sustainable. Erik Swelheim, CFO KLM
Sustainability is one of Arcadis’ core values. We all see the effects of climate change – rising sea levels and increasingly severe storms. We want to see the payoff in everything we do – improving quality of life – not only now, but for future generations as well. That includes well-balanced air travel. Peter Oosterveer, CEO Arcadis NV
Sustainability is high on our agenda. Very often, we advise our clients about sustainable solutions. In that case, we have to provide a good example as well. We now have climate-neutral operations in the Netherlands. As an international company, cannot avoid flying, but we do want to do it as sustainably as possible. That is why we are so enthusiastic about KLM's Corporate BioFuel Programme and why we will continue to invest in sustainable biofuels. Gert Kroon, General Director Arcadis the Netherlands"
Reducing CO2 emissions
KLM is aiming to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 20% in 2020 (compared to 2010). To do this, KLM is not only investing in sustainable biofuel but also in fleet renewal and more efficient flight operations. Using sustainable biofuel in large quantities can result in an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuels. However, the price continues to be two or three times higher than that of standard jet fuel. For this reason, there is a worldwide need for technological development and further research into sustainable raw materials. Right now, the production, and the market, for sustainable biofuel is extremely limited.
KLM has been working to develop the market for biofuel since 2009 and is stimulating more airlines to follow its example. Other partners in the Corporate BioFuel Programme include Air Traffic Control the Netherlands, Delft University of Technology, ABN AMRO, Accenture, FrieslandCampina, the City of Amsterdam, Loyens & Loeff, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, PGGM, and the Schiphol Group.
No negative impact on biodiversity
KLM only purchases biofuels made from raw materials that have no negative environmental impact on biodiversity or food production. Sustainable biofuels are purchased through SkyNRG and are tested by the SkyNRG Sustainability Board, which includes the World Wide Fund for Nature, the European Climate Foundation, and Solidaridad Network as members. SkyNRG is certified by the Roundtable of Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB).