The Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme: What It Means for Public Sector Fleets
Public sector fleets across the UK are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and transition to low-carbon fuels. However, concerns about fuel sustainability, supply chain transparency, and compliance with government sustainability targets often create barriers to adoption.
The Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS) is designed to address these concerns by providing an independent certification process that verifies the sustainability and greenhouse gas (GHG) savings of renewable fuels. For public sector fleet operators, understanding and leveraging the RFAS can help simplify decision-making, ensure compliance with sustainability regulations, and support progress toward Net Zero 2050.
Key Benefits of switching to HVO fuel
Drop-in compatible
No need for engine modifications or infrastructure changes.
Up to 90% CO₂ reduction
One of the most sustainable fuels available.
Meets ISCC and Zemo RFAS standards
Ensures full compliance with UK regulations.
Scalable and available now
No waiting for EV or hydrogen infrastructure development.
What is the Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS)?
The Zemo Partnership is an independent, not-for-profit organisation working with government and industry to accelerate the UK’s transition to zero-emission transport. Established in 2003 as the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP), it rebranded to Zemo in 2021 to reflect its focus on delivering net-zero outcomes. The organisation supports policy development, runs industry accreditation schemes like the RFAS, and plays a key role in ensuring that climate goals are met with practical, scalable solutions.
The Zemo Partnership developed the RFAS as a voluntary certification program to verify that renewable fuels used in the UK meet strict environmental standards. It provides fleet operators, councils, and businesses with a clear and transparent way to identify and source fuels that deliver real carbon savings.
Key Features of the Zemo RFAS?
Independent Verification
Ensures fuels meet sustainability standards beyond basic regulatory requirements.
Minimum GHG Savings of 65%
All certified fuels must demonstrate at least 65% lower emissions than fossil diesel.
Full Supply Chain Transparency
Certified suppliers must provide clear evidence of sustainability from feedstock sourcing to final delivery.
Compatibility with Existing Infrastructure
Certified fuels, such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), can be used as drop-in replacements for diesel without modifications to existing vehicles.
Why the ZEMO RFAS Matters for Public Sector Fleets
For councils, emergency services, and local government fleets, the RFAS offers confidence and clarity when evaluating renewable fuel options.
1. Compliance with Government Targets
Public sector bodies must align with stringent climate commitments, including:
- The UK’s legally binding target of Net Zero by 2050.
- Local and regional air quality improvement initiatives.
- Reducing reliance on fossil fuels in municipal and emergency vehicle fleets.
By choosing RFAS-certified fuels, councils can demonstrate compliance with these targets and avoid scrutiny over unverified sustainability claims.
2. Can Reduce Fleet Emissions Without High Infrastructure Costs
Transitioning to electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles requires significant investment in new fleets and refuelling infrastructure. For many councils and emergency services, this is a long-term solution that cannot be implemented immediately.
RFAS-certified fuels like HVO provide an immediate, cost-effective solution to reduce emissions without needing to replace vehicles or build new fuelling stations.
Ensures Fuel Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing
One of the biggest concerns around biofuels is whether they contribute to deforestation or unsustainable land use. The RFAS ensures:
- Strict sustainability criteria for feedstocks.
- No use of virgin palm oil or feedstocks linked to deforestation.
- Independent auditing to verify that all fuels deliver genuine carbon savings.
For public sector bodies, this removes uncertainty and helps reassure stakeholders that they are making an environmentally responsible choice.
How Zemo RFAS and the RTFO Support Each Other
The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) and the Zemo RFAS work together to promote sustainable fuel adoption by setting regulatory and voluntary standards for fuel sustainability in the UK.
- The RTFO is a legal requirement that mandates fuel suppliers to include a certain percentage of renewable fuels in their supply to reduce carbon emissions.
- The RFAS complements the RTFO by providing an independent assurance mechanism that goes beyond compliance, offering fleet operators additional transparency and confidence in the sustainability of their fuel choices.
- Alongside the RFAS, the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) ensures that biofuels like HVO meet global sustainability and traceability standards, aligning with EU RED and UK RTFO requirements.
- Together, the schemes ensure credibility and traceability, helping public sector fleets access certified renewable fuels that meet both legal and voluntary sustainability standards.
“As public sector fleets look for immediate, scalable solutions to reduce emissions, the Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme plays a critical role in ensuring sustainable fuel adoption is both credible and effective. By choosing RFAS-certified fuels, councils and public fleet operators can make informed decisions that align with climate goals, budget constraints, and operational requirements.”