CO2-Reduction in Agricultural Logistics – HVO as Alternative to Diesel?

<b><sc>Abstract.</sc></b> The decarbonization of agricultural logistics presents a major challenge due to the continued dependence on diesel-powered vehicles and the limited availability of alternative propulsion technologies. This paper investigates the potential of bio-based diesel fuels, in particular hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), as practical solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector. These renewable fuels can be used in existing diesel engines without technical modifications, which makes them especially relevant for agricultural machinery and freight vehicles operating under demanding conditions. Beyond the comparison of fuel characteristics, the paper examines the political and regulatory framework in Germany, including energy taxation, the national carbon pricing scheme under the Fuel Emissions Trading Act, and the greenhouse gas reduction quota. The analysis shows that both HVO and FAME offer considerable emissions savings, with HVO showing advantages in terms of usability and market development. However, the limited availability of sustainable feedstocks restricts the overall potential for expansion. The study concludes that renewable diesel fuels can contribute meaningfully to climate protection in agricultural logistics, especially in rural areas where electrification and alternative technologies remain difficult to implement.