US firm turns crop waste into long-range fuel for planes, ships

US-based Honeywell has developed a new Biocrude Upgrading process technology that converts agricultural and forestry waste—such as wood chips and crop residues—into renewable fuels suitable for long-range applications in maritime shipping and aviation. This technology addresses the maritime industry’s urgent need to reduce its roughly 3% share of global greenhouse gas emissions by providing a lower-carbon “drop-in” alternative to traditional heavy fuel oil, which has powered ocean vessels since the 1960s. The renewable marine fuel produced has a higher energy density than many existing biofuels, enabling ships to extend their operational range without costly engine modifications. The process begins at feedstock collection sites, where raw biomass is converted into a stable, densified “biocrude,” reducing transport costs before it is refined at centralized facilities. Honeywell’s modular, prefabricated plants aim to accelerate deployment timelines and lower upfront capital risks for customers, making the technology more accessible and cost-effective. This innovation aligns with broader global efforts to develop sustainable