Bio-diesel tests for Broads boats

The East has a reputation for key assets, such as the Norfolk Broads

Motor cruisers that are hired out on the Norfolk Broads are testing the use of bio-diesel to help protect the environment, it has been announced.

About 40 holiday boats are set to take part in the two-year project by the Broads Hire Boat Federation.

Three boatyards have already started using the fuel, with nine of their craft using 100% bio-diesel.

Similar "control" boats will be part of the tests, using normal diesel fuel, to compare performance.

The bio-diesel is manufactured by Global Commodities of Dereham from recycled vegetable oils, making it very valuable in reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Test carried out

As part of the project the engine emissions from two cruisers were tested last week to find out how clean the bio-diesel is compared to conventional fuel.

Researchers from Newcastle University carried out these tests and the results, to be published next month, will provide evidence on the fuel.

The environmentally friendly fuel has been the subject of earlier research in this country and the USA, and evidence suggests that it has many positive effects.

Broads Hire Boat Federation Chairman Ken Gaylard said: "We are extremely pleased to be involved in this practical research project on the Broads.

"When evaluated at the end of the two-year period, we expect that these trials will point the way towards an environmentally friendly power source for Broads boats at an affordable price."