SD Guthrie has launched a B30 biodiesel pilot project in collaboration with Malaysia’s Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK), Petronas Dagangan Berhad (PETDAG), and the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). The initiative aims to assess the reliability and scalability of high palm oil content biodiesel in real-world applications.

As part of the project, SD Guthrie will convert all plantation machinery and vehicle fleets on Carey Island, Selangor, to run on B30 fuel—a blend of 30% palm-based biodiesel and 70% petroleum diesel—supplied by PETDAG from its Melaka terminal.

The company expects the switch to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 23% in its daily operations. Managing Director Dato’ Mohamad Helmy emphasized that the move underscores SD Guthrie’s leadership in decarbonizing the plantation sector and aligns with Malaysia’s broader goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels by promoting palm-based alternatives. “B30 biodiesel marks a critical milestone in our journey toward net-zero emissions. It not only helps us cut GHG emissions but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable practices in the plantation industry,” he said.

While B30 biodiesel currently comes with higher production costs, Helmy expressed hope that the project will pave the way for nationwide adoption, ultimately boosting domestic palm oil consumption and enhancing energy security.