TUI and Repsol Collaborate to Initiate Their Inaugural Biofuel Coach Trial

TUI has embarked on a new initiative to reduce transport emissions in popular travel destinations, launching a trial that utilizes coaches powered entirely by used cooking oil. This pilot program commenced with a coach transporting 55 guests from their hotel to Alicante Airport. In partnership with Repsol, TUI is implementing this biofuel project within segments of its coach fleet in Benidorm. Starting mid-October, select coaches will operate on renewable diesel, commonly referred to as HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil). TUI is optimistic about the outcomes of this trial and is actively seeking additional strategies to further decrease emissions across its ground transportation services.

This biofuel initiative represents only a fraction of TUI’s broader sustainability efforts. The company is committed to achieving emission reduction targets that encompass not just ground transport but also its airline operations, cruise services, and hotel accommodations. These ambitious goals have been independently verified by the Science Based Targets initiative, a collaborative effort involving the UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute (WRI), the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), and CDP.

TUI’s dedication to responsible travel is central to its operational philosophy and future planning. By prioritizing sustainable practices, the company aims to minimize its environmental footprint and enhance the travel experience for its guests. This innovative biofuel trial aligns with TUI’s strategy to integrate eco-friendly solutions throughout its services, contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry.

As the trial progresses, TUI expects to gather valuable insights into the effectiveness and viability of using biofuels in its transport operations. The results may pave the way for expanding similar initiatives to other destinations, reinforcing TUI’s role as a leader in sustainable tourism.

In summary, TUI's partnership with Repsol to pilot biofuel coaches marks a significant step forward in its commitment to reducing transportation emissions. By leveraging renewable diesel for a portion of its Benidorm fleet, the company aims to set a precedent for eco-friendly travel solutions. TUI’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, validated by international standards, underscores its ambition to create a responsible travel model that prioritizes environmental stewardship while delivering exceptional experiences for travelers. Further developments are anticipated as TUI continues to innovate and explore additional avenues for emissions reduction in the travel sector.

Repsol S.A. is a Madrid-based multinational energy and petrochemical company from Spain, involved in both upstream and downstream activities globally. The company is vertically integrated, covering all sectors of the oil and gas industry, including exploration, production, refining, distribution, marketing, petrochemicals, power generation, and trading. Additionally, its business strategy encompasses hydraulic fracking on the North Slope of Alaska.