UCO is a waste-derived, low-carbon lipid stream collected from restaurants, food processors and households. After filtration and pre-treatment it becomes a key raw material for the production of FAME (UCOME), HVO and SAF.
Production pathway
• Collection → screening → de-watering → deacidification → polishing → finished UCO ready for conversion.
• Final UCO must meet ISCC-EU & RED II/III feedstock criteria to qualify for full GHG-saving credits.
Uses
• Direct feed to transesterification units for UCOME/FAME.
• Hydro-processing feedstock for HVO (renewable diesel) and HEFA-SPK (SAF).
• Compatible with existing oil-seed crushing, oleochemical and refinery infrastructure; no minimum UCO content required by EU legislation.
Environmental & logistical benefits
• Diverts waste from landfill, cuts sewer blockages and reduces lifecycle CO₂ by up to 90 % versus virgin oils.
• Fully fungible with existing liquid-bulk storage and transport systems; heated tanks (> 25 °C) recommended for high-FFA lots.
| Basis | ISCC-EU + RED II/III technical guidance | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Water & impurities | ≤ 0.5 % m/m |
| 2 | FFA | ≤ 3 % (acid value ≤ 6 mg KOH/g) |
| 3 | Total chlorine | ≤ 30 mg/kg |
| 4 | Total phosphorus | ≤ 10 mg/kg |
| 5 | M/I | ≤ 0.2 % m/m |
| 6 | Oxidation stability (110 °C) | ≥ 8 h (EN 15751) |
| 7 | GHG saving | ≥ 83 % (default value, RED II Annex VI) |