by Justin Foster (Simply Flying) Universal Hydrogen closed due to lack of funding and a failed merger; The company aimed to develop hydrogen-powered flight but faced infrastructure challenges; Despite achieving a hydrogen-powered flight in 2023, the company couldn't secure further financing. On Thursday, June
Changing Their Minds on “Land Use Change”?
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association) In early 2022, University of Wisconsin researcher Tyler Lark published a study claiming that U.S. farmers had converted several million acres of pristine grassland and other “seminatural areas” to cropland in response to the Renewable Fuel Standard and growth in ethanol production.
The study was accompanied by a well-funded, well-orchestrated public relations blitz that resulted in dozens of news articles and editorials, widespread radio and TV coverage, and echo-chambering on blogs and social media channels. Even though the study’s methods and findings were roundly criticized and swiftly rebuked by the scientific community, the massive PR push behind the study unfortunately succeeded in spreading the “land use change” myth far and wide.
Two years later (March 2024), Lark published another study on land use change. Only this time there was no big publicity campaign. No interviews on NPR, no pithy feature story on Fox News or HBO talk shows, no social media blasts, no TIME magazine pieces, no National Wildlife Federation press conferences, no congressional staff briefings (those are all things that really happened after the 2022 study). In fact, the newest Lark study made about as much noise as a tree falling in the woods.
Why? What changed? How come there wasn’t a massive PR effort around the new land use study?
Put simply: the results of the new Lark paper don’t fit the doomsday narrative that was carefully crafted by media-savvy PR firms following the release of 2022 study. Indeed, the new Lark study actually contradicts and undermines his study that made headlines two years ago. That’s why they’re keeping it quiet.
Using the same satellite imagery approach that Lark used for the 2022 study, this newest study shows that between 1986 and 2018—a timeframe that encompasses the period of rapid growth in ethanol production—more than 30 million acres of U.S. cropland were abandoned and transitioned into grassland/permanent pasture, forest, shrubland, wetlands, urban areas, and other uses.
Wow! That’s right…rather than claiming cropland expanded into grassland and forest areas during the biofuels era (like his previous papers), this new Lark study suggests the exact opposite occurred.
According to the new analysis, U.S. cropland area significantly receded over the 33-year period examined—and in its place, grassland, permanent pasture, trees, and shrubs sprang up. Some of the ground was enrolled in CRP, but most was not. Lark and his colleagues concluded that “among the abandoned croplands, 53% changed to grassland and pasture, 18.6% to shrubland and forest, 8.4% to wetlands, and 4.6% to non-vegetated lands” (it seems likely that “non-vegetated land” is mostly urban/suburban land).
These findings appear generally consistent with land use data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and EPA, which show steadily declining cropland area and stable or increasing forest and grassland over the past several decades.
To put 30 million acres of abandoned cropland into context, consider that roughly 27 million acres of cropland were used to produce 15.6 billion gallons of ethanol and nearly 40 million tons of distillers grains animal feed last year. So, according to Tyler Lark, we’ve lost more cropland in the past three decades than we actually use today for ethanol and its many co-products. It’s also noteworthy that the 2022 Lark study’s highly flawed estimate of land use change (i.e., so-called “natural lands” converted to cropland) caused by the RFS was 4.4 million acres—seven times smaller than Lark’s new estimate of the amount of cropland that transitioned to grassland, pasture, forest, shrubland and other non-crop uses.
So, where did the abandonment of cropland and growth in grassland, forest, shrubland, and wetlands primarily occur? According to the new Lark study, areas with the highest amount of conversion from cropland to non-cropland were the Dakotas, Kansas, Montana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan also had large amounts of abandoned cropland that transitioned into grassland, forest, and other land types.
Ironically, these are many of the same states where previous Lark studies claimed significant cropland expansion into native lands was occurring—especially the Dakotas, Minnesota, southern Iowa, and northern Missouri. The new study suggests some counties in those same states saw as much as 20-30% of total cropland abandoned and transitioned into other land types between 1986 and 2018.
Moreover: “The cropland abandonment we identify here is expected to persist,” the authors wrote.
They also found that “urban development is another important cause of cropland loss,” and specifically noted Chicago, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Detroit, St. Louis and Columbus as cities where urban sprawl has displaced productive cropland.
Now, before you go thinking this group of researchers has finally seen the light, it’s important to note that this new study suffers from many of the same methodological problems and flaws as their previous satellite imagery work (e.g., lumping pasture and grass hay ground together with native grassland; misclassification of certain land cover types in the “Cropland Data Layer” tool).
Nonetheless, it’s intriguing to see Lark and his colleagues arriving at conclusions that so clearly undercut and further discredit their previous land use change studies.
Hopefully, the PR machine that ginned up all the publicity on the 2022 Lark study has a new seven-figure campaign in the works to publicize these results on the substantial amount of cropland abandonment and the remarkable increases in efficiency experienced throughout U.S. agriculture. Will the environmental groups aligned with Lark ask their PR firms to pitch this story to reporters? Will Lark go back on public radio to correct the record? Will Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld or HBO’s John Oliver pick up the story and do a mea culpa after being misled by Lark’s previous work?
We’re not holding our breath. READ MORE
Related articles
- Response to comments from Lark et al. regarding Taheripour et al. March 2022 comments on Lark et. al. original PNAS paper (Argonne National Laboratory)
- REBUTTAL TO THE LARK ET AL. REPORT “ENVIRONMENTAL OUTCOMES OF THE U.S. RENEWABLE FUEL STANDARD” (Renewable Fuels Association)
- Cropland abandonment between 1986 and 2018 across the United States: spatiotemporal patterns and current land uses (Environmental Research Letters)
- The TRUTH about Corn and Water Use (Renewable Fuels Association)
- A comprehensive summary of agricultural activity for the United States and for each state. Includes number of farms by size and type, inventory and values for crops and livestock, producer characteristics, and much more. (U.S. Department of Agriculture)
- NEW STUDY FINDS 30 MILLION ACRES OF CROPLAND HAVE BEEN ABANDONED SINCE 1986 (AgriMarketing)
New Studies: Low Carbon Fuels, FFVs More Effective at Reducing GHG Emissions than De Facto EV Mandates
(Renewable Fuels Association) Increased use of lower-carbon liquid fuels in light-duty vehicles would lead to larger and faster reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than EPA’s recently finalized EV-forcing tailpipe emissions standards, according to a new study commissioned by the RFA and executed by an independent not-for-profit research institute.
“Lowering the carbon intensity of liquid fuels can reduce CO2 emissions faster than [electric] vehicles can displace the existing fleet,” according to the study. With a modest fuel carbon intensity reduction of just 1.25 percent per year nationwide, “the cumulative CO2 benefit from 2027 to 2032 would be 77 percent larger than required by the EPA standards.” The study notes that “this CO2 benefit could be achieved with a dramatically smaller on-road BEV fleet” than is anticipated by EPA under the new tailpipe standards.
The study also found that if automakers rely primarily on BEVs to meet EPA’s tailpipe standards and if 17 states adopt California’s “zero emissions vehicle” mandate, U.S. liquid fuel consumption in 2035 will fall 38 billion gallons (compared to 2022 levels) and electricity consumption will jump 480 terawatt hours (roughly twice as much electricity as California uses annually).
“Not only are EPA’s tailpipe standards based on the false premise that battery electric vehicles somehow have zero GHG emissions impacts, but the agency also failed to consider alternative solutions—like lower carbon liquid fuels—that could achieve the same goals more quickly and cost-effectively,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “This study shows that a nationwide move to reduce carbon intensity by just 1.25 percent per year would almost double the carbon savings expected by EPA under the tailpipe regulation, while allowing more light-duty vehicle and fuel options for consumers. The study also provides startling projections of the liquid fuel demand destruction and surge in electricity consumption that could result from EPA and California vehicle standards.”
A second study by the research institute shows that if the existing fleet of flex fuel vehicles (FFVs) used modestly larger amounts of E85, substantial GHG emissions reductions could be achieved. And, if those FFVs used only E85, GHG emissions would be reduced by up to 54 million metric tons per year—equivalent to almost 40 percent of EPA’s estimated GHG savings in 2035 from the new tailpipe standards.
“Widespread use of E85 would have significant greenhouse gas emissions benefits,” the study concluded. According to the study, rapid growth in E85 “could achieve a large fraction” of the expected benefit from EPA’s tailpipe regulation “because E85 would improve life cycle CO2 emissions for a large fleet of existing vehicles, not just new vehicles.”
The study notes that using E85 in FFVs, which account for more than 8 percent of today’s on-road fleet, also would save consumers money at the pump. “In addition to the greenhouse gas benefits, E85 generally offers a retail price advantage,” the study found. “If all FFVs nationwide consumed only E85, it would result in annual savings of over $2.2 billion,” even when prices are adjusted to reflect E85’s lower energy density.
“This study indicates that in the headlong rush to EVs, federal and state policymakers are overlooking an incredibly effective tool for reducing GHG emissions from the existing fleet,” Cooper said. “Nearly 21 million FFVs are already on the road today and they could produce enormous GHG emissions benefits if government leaders would simply put more emphasis and encouragement behind the use of low-carbon fuel blends like E85.”
Cooper said the results of the study underscore another important error in EPA’s tailpipe regulation. “Automakers are strongly compelled to build more BEVs because EPA’s regulation assumes they have zero emissions,” Cooper said. “Yet, at the same time, EPA’s regulation discourages automakers from building new E85-capable FFVs because those vehicles are assumed to offer no benefit over gasoline vehicles, even though this study—and lots of other research—shows E85 provides at least a 35 percent GHG savings.” READ MORE
Related articles
- Electric Vehicle Effects on Gasoline and Electricity Consumption (Southwest Research Institute)
- Future Scenarios for E85 in the U.S. (Southwest Research Institute)
- Ethanol Blog: Studies: Low-Carbon Fuel Standard, Flexible Fuel Vehicles Reduce More GHG Emissions Than Electric Vehicles (DTN Progressive Farmer)
- Study Shows Benefits of FFVs and Low Carbon Ethanol (Energy.AgWired.com; includes AUDIO)
- New Studies: Low Carbon Fuels, FFVs More Effective At Reducing GHG Emissions Than De Facto EV Mandates (Ethanol Producer Magazine)
- STUDIES SUPPORT GREATER BIOFUEL USAGE TO REDUCE TRANSPORTATION EMISSIONS (Brownfield Ag News)
- Biofuels Sector Ramps Up Critique Of EPA Auto Rules As CRA Votes Near (Inside EPA)
- Regan confident on tailpipe rule despite other legal setbacks for EPA (Politico Pro)
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Mark P. Mills
It’s no coincidence that the benefits of the still-expanding digital economy are colliding with the energy realities of the old economy. Ironically, the energy-hungry cloud is enabling a booming gig economy, which in turn fuels demand for the old economy’s favorite mobility technology—a low-cost, high-convenience car with a high-performance internal combustion engine. -- Mark P. Mills, executive director of the National Center on Energy Analytics, a strategic partner in the energy fund Montrose Lane, in an article in City Journal READ MORE
Belgium: EPPO Arrests Two Suspects in €3.1 Million Biodiesel Fraud Investigation
( Independent public prosecution office of the EU) The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in Brussels (Belgium) has arrested two suspects in connection with an investigation into a customs fraud involving biodiesel imports, with an estimated damage of €3.1 million. The two
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Co-Fermentation Process Making Significant Strides in Biofuel Research
(Oklahoma State University) Researchers in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University continue to refine a co-fermentation process resulting in the production of butanol, a biofuel made from renewable resources that can be converted into jet fuel.
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Value and Sustainability through Agriculture
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Pacific Ag is North America’s largest harvester and marketer of crop residue, operating the largest harvest fleet globally.In this ABLC presentation from pacific Ag’s Harrison Pettit, the potential of ag residuals when realized globally – improving lives,
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
ClearFlame Engine Technology Advancing
by Jared White (Brownfield Ag News) The chairman of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board (ICMB) says checkoff dollars are being used to advance technologies to convert diesel engines to run on ethanol. Jon Rosenstiel, who farms in Stephenson County, tells Brownfield investments
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Shell to Pause Construction on One of Europe's Biggest Biofuels Plants
by Carl Surran (Seeking Alpha) Shell (NYSE:SHEL) said on Tuesday it will stop construction of a major biofuels production facility in the Netherlands, as it seeks to ensure the project's competitiveness in a market that faces an anticipated flood of sustainable fuels from
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023-25 Appropriately Set, EPA Says
by Shayna Greene (Bloomberg Law) Supplemental volumes already partially upheld by court; Recordkeeping necessary for food feedstock eligibility -- The Environmental Protection Agency defended its latest standards for renewable fuel from various attacks by both environmental and industry groups. “EPA appropriately set the specific
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Copersucar and Geo Announce Partnership to Develop Technology in Brazil for SAF Production from Biogas
(Copersucar) Copersucar and Geo bio gas&carbon announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the aim of developing technology for converting biogas into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Combining Copersucar’s scale in the sugarcane-energy sector with Geo’s expertise in biogas/biomethane
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Vertus Energy secures €8.75m seed funding to drive delivery of European renewable energy agenda
(Vertus Energy/NewsByWire) Vertus Energy – a Waste-to-X* industrial biotech startup specialising in advanced control of bacteria behaviour – has closed a EUR 8.75 million seed funding round, it was announced today. The funding, led by prominent global investors Energy Capital Ventures®, joined
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Northern Ireland Seeks to Develop “Sustainable Biomethane Sector” Public Comment DEADLINE August 9, 2024
(Bioenergy Insight) ... Encirc’s sustainability director, Fiacre O’Donnell has said that the “only way to achieve a truly Net Zero future is to adopt new sustainable fuel sources at scale”. Fiacre was speaking in the wake of Economy Minister Deirdre Hargey
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
VALPLAST Project Aims to Convert Plastic Waste into Biogas
(Bioenergy Insight) VALPLAST - a strategic project consisting of a consortium of members, and funded by the European Union - will aim to recover biodegradable plastic waste through anaerobic co-digestion treatment with sludge from sewage treatment plants (STP). This will obtain a
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
A Crop Insurance Provider's Advice for Adding Sustainable Practices
by Cheyenne Kramer (AgWeb) With the adoption of sustainable farming practices on the rise, more producers may be looking at how double or relay cropping fits into their operations. Sheila Backer, assistant vice president of underwriting at Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance,
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
State of Sustainable Fleets In 2024
(BioCycle) State of Sustainable Fleets is an annual evaluation of the clean commercial transportation market, conducted by TRC Companies, Inc. Now in its fifth year, the annual Market Brief provides historic data and analysis on leading sustainable technologies for fleets — including electrification, renewable
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Airbus Study: Fleet Upgrades Motivated by Sustainability, SAF
by Sarah Rose (AIN) 79% of polled execs cited sustainability as factor -- A study commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets found that 79% of polled U.S. senior business executives from companies that lease or own private jets said sustainability and the use
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
RENMAD H2 Events --- various times --- various locations
We are constantly striving to bring the most relevant topics related to renewable H2 and energy storage to life at our in-person events in Europe and America. To find out more about each event, click on its box and go
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
KPI Signs Partnership Agreement with Italy’s Fox Petroli to Produce Biofuels
(Arab Times) Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI) announced on Wednesday completing the agreement to acquire a 50 percent stake in Italy’s Eco Fox SRL, a company wholly owned by Fox Petroli, which specializes in the production of biofuels. In a statement to
July 02, 2024 Read Full Article
New Study Reveals Shorter Carbon Storage Period in Plants
by Kaleigh Harrison (Environment + Energy Leader) A recent study has unveiled that the carbon sequestered by plants globally is stored for shorter periods and is more susceptible to climate change impacts than previously understood. Conducted by an international team led
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Innovation and Collaboration: The Engine behind Sustainable Marine Fuels
by Mallory Hauser (Port of Seattle) Sustainable marine fuels are the future of maritime transportation, and it's a conversation that demands all hands on deck. Government, ports, industry leaders, innovators, investors, and the community all have a role to play. Without this collective
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Port of Seattle’s 10-Year Deal with Carnival Includes Biofuel Demonstration Project
(Manifold Times) Port and Carnival will collaborate on a non-fossil fuel demonstration project and study to identify the end-to-end challenges and opportunities for using sustainable maritime fuels at scale in Seattle. -- The Port of Seattle Commission on Tuesday (25 June) said
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Metsä Group and ANDRITZ Investigate Capturing Wood-Based Carbon Dioxide
(Bioenergy International) In Finland, forest industry major Metsä Group and the Austria-headed international technology company Andritz AG (ANDRITZ) have announced that the duo will investigate the possibility of building a carbon capture facility in connection with a bioproduct mill. The work
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
International Agencies Issue Joint Statement on the Role of Sustainable Bioenergy
(Bioenergy International) ... To raise awareness of the significance and highlight the critical role of sustainable bioenergy in the global energy transitions, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has issued a joint statement that seeks to address the persistent debates
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Rice Straw Researcher Bags 2024 GBEP Youth Award
by Alan Sherrard (Bioenergy International) In Rome, Italy, Czaneil Gomez an Aston University, UK visiting researcher from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) has been announced as
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
APHIS Releases Preview of Request for Information on Options for Reducing Regulations for Modified Microbes DEADLINE TBD
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) he U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will soon invite public comment for 60 days on a Request for Information (RFI) once published in the Federal Register. The RFI will explore options
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Renewable Naphtha Supply Dynamics
(S&P Global Commodity Insights) Join Stephen Li, Research Director, Biofuels, S & P Global Commodity Insights as they divlge the capabilities within the bio-naphtha sector. WATCH/LISTEN
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Nominations Open: Rising Star Awards 2024 -- Women in Engineering DEADLINE July 22, 2024
(Tech Briefs) Women have been making significant improvements to engineering and are at the forefront of innovation and sustainable development. SAE Media Group shines the spotlight on their achievements with its inaugural annual Women in Engineering: Rising Star Awards program. The Women in Engineering: Rising
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Book & Claim: Unlocking SAF Supply Today
by Jefferson dos Santos Estevo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The last episode of the webinar hosted by the Roundtable for Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) was about a relatively new topic called Book and Claim (BC). This is an innovative method, still in
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
E. Kalimantan Governor Encourages Chinese Investment in Biodiesel Plant
(Indonesia Business Post) Governor of East Kalimantan, Akmal Malik, encouraged Chinese companies to invest in building a biodiesel plant in East Kalimantan, emphasizing the region’s significant palm oil production potential. The offer was conveyed during his recent visit to Huangshan, Anhui
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Letters to the Editor: Aviation Fuel
by Alison Graab (Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition/Boston Herald) The recent guest oped (“Taxpayers shouldn’t subsidize billionaires’ jet fuel,” June 21) significantly mischaracterizes sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), its benefits and beneficiaries. Nearly 3 million passengers and more than 58,000 tons of cargo
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
SAF Roundtable in Vancouver
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Representatives of the U.S. biofuels industry, including Renewable Fuels Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ed Hubbard, joined a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) policy roundtable in Vancouver, Canada recently on the sidelines of a USDA agribusiness trade mission. The U.S.
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Decision to Install Small-Scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Production Test Rig for further Development of CO₂ to SAF Synthesis Technologies
(IHI Corporation) -The next stage of world-class synthesis technology development- - IHI Corporation together with the Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE²)(*1), a research institute under the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, has been working on the
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
RTA to Test Hydrogen Bus in Dubai’s Climate
(Gulf News) ... The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has signed an agreement with a company to trial an environmentally-friendly hydrogen bus in Dubai’s climate and operational conditions. The agreement was signed by Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to a Year of Opportunity for Sustainable Fuels & Chemicals
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Gerard Ostheimer, Manager of the CEM Biofuture Campaign and chairman of the Bold Goals Action Group, gave these slides at ABLC 2024 outlining the opportunities at the international policy level stemming from India’s G20 presidency last
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Models on the Runway: Is SAF Ready for Take-off?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... So, at EUBCE, you ask, what is the buzz on the floor? To paraphrase Monty Python:, it is SAF, SAF, SAF, SAF, carbon price on chemicals, eSAF, SAF, SAF and eSAF. So many people had so many
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
America Has the Hydrogen Vehicle the World Doesn’t Know about: There Are Only 90, and They’re Colossal
by D. Garcia (EcoNews/ECOticia) ... King County Metro, which is the public transit agency for Seattle and its surrounding regions, has revealed that it will demonstrate and put into use hydrogen fuel cell buses as it moves closer to achieving a
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
This Engine Runs on Water and Will Be Commercialized: Better than Hydrogen and More than 400 hp
by D. Garcia (EcoNews/ECOticia) ... In addition to the usual use of hydrogen, some engine manufacturers are exploring the possibility of burning hydrogen with combustion engines. This operation is more inefficient, but retains much of the essence of these engines,
July 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Future of Chemical Recycling 2025 --- February 5-6, 2025 --- Amsterdam, Netherlands
After a thought-provoking and hugely successful launch this year, ACI’s next edition of Future of Chemical Recycling will be taking place in February 2025. ACI was proud to launch this landmark event in the realm of sustainable waste-material management in Rotterdam on the
June 30, 2024 Read Full Article
International Conference on Renewable Resources & Biorefineries (RRB) --- June 11-13, 2025 --- Turku, Finland
SAVE THE DATE READ MORE Delegates from university, industry, governmental an non-governmental organizations and venture capital providers will present their views on industrial biotechnology, sustainable (green) chemistry and agricultural policy related to the use of renewable raw materials for non-food applications and energy supply. The conference further aims
June 29, 2024 Read Full Article
Future of BioLNG: Europe 2025 --- January 29-30, 2025 --- Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Join us for ACI’s The Future of BioLNG: Europe 2025, a premier event dedicated to BioLNG innovation, regulation, and market dynamics taking place 29th & 30th January, 2025 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This conference will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and key
June 29, 2024 Read Full Article
Philippine DOE to Release Roadmap for Sustainable Aviation Fuels in July
(Power Philippines News) The roadmap for the Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) will be developed this July, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). In the recently concluded German-Philippine conference on innovative bioenergy technologies, DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevara said that the
June 29, 2024 Read Full Article
EPA Announces $932 Million in Grants for Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Under 2024 Program DEADLINE July 25, 2024
(California Special Districts Association) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that, under the 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity, they will award up to $932 million in competitive grant funding for clean heavy-duty vehicles to municipalities throughout
June 29, 2024 Read Full Article
DOE Announces $16 Million to Advance Technologies that Transform Carbon Emissions into Valuable Products
(U.S. Department of Energy) Funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda will help decarbonize U.S. fuel and chemical industries by enabling sustainable alternatives generated from carbon dioxide -- As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office
June 29, 2024 Read Full Article
Kemin Industries Acquires Antimicrobial Company to Expand Product Offerings for U.S. Biofuel Industry
(Kemin Industries/PR Newswire) Colorado-based Archangel Inc. is a market leader in advanced bacterial control solutions for the biofuel industry -- Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Engineered Biocatalyst for Making 'Drop-in' Biofuels
by Pratibha Gopalakrishna (Indian Institute of Science/Phys.Org) Researchers at the Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (IPC), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), have developed an enzymatic platform that can efficiently transform naturally abundant and inexpensive fatty acids to valuable hydrocarbons called
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Biofuels to Spur Investments of B114bn Public Comments DEADLINE July 12, 2024
by Yuthana Praiwan (Bangkok Post) National oil plan looks at impact of shift to cleaner fuels for transport -- Biofuels, including gasohol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), are expected to help generate new investment worth 114 billion baht in the oil business over
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Mahle Bats for Biofuels to Drive Cleaner Vehicular Emissions in India
by Murali Gopalan (Economic Times Auto) The German auto parts maker, with a significant presence in India, is pushing for use of biofuels as a clean alternative. It also hopes to set up a Bio-Mobility Tech Centre in Pune on the lines
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
EIB and Cepsa Sign €285 Million Loan to Finance the Construction of a Second-Generation Biofuels Plant in Spain
(Cepsa) - Plant in Andalusia region to make biofuels from organic waste like used cooking oil or agricultural waste, supporting the circular economy; Biofuels to be used in sectors that are difficult to decarbonise, such as air transport, maritime transport
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
CARB Floats ICE-Only Fleet Average in Bid to Strengthen Vehicle GHG Rules
(Inside EPA) California air board officials are proposing to tighten light-duty vehicle greenhouse gas standards by creating an internal combustion engine (ICE)-only fleet average starting in model year 2030, an action that would “remove” automakers’ current ability to factor a range
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to GTI Energy and Breakthrough Collaboration
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In this ABLC presentation by GTI Energy’s Pedro Ortiz, IH2 technology, Cool Reformer/E-Reformer Technology, SAF from Biogas, Biomass, CO2, and Waste Gas, SAF from Biogas, Biomass, CO2, and Waste Gas, rLPG from bioethanol and much
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Supreme Court Curbs Federal Agency Power, Overturning Chevron Precedent
by Ann E. Marimow (Washington Post) The Supreme Court on Friday curtailed the power of federal government agencies to regulate vast swaths of American life, overturning a 40-year-old legal precedent long targeted by conservatives who say the government gives unaccountable bureaucrats too
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Hydrogen Production from Plastic Waste through Chemical Recycling
(Sweco) Plastic waste is a global problem, with just 16 per cent of plastic waste recycled to make new plastics, while 40 per cent is sent to landfills worldwide. A waste-to-hydrogen project in central Poland is being developed to address this
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Sweco Supports VoltH2 in Design and Development of New Green Hydrogen Plant in the Netherlands
(Sweco) The European energy company VoltH2 has selected Sweco as its partner for the design and development of a new hydrogen plant in Delfzijl in the Netherlands. The production facility has received the necessary permits and is currently in the
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Nikkiso to Establish Close to 24 Hydrogen Stations in South Korea
(Mobility Plaza) With several stations already commissioned and operating, it is set that the remaining locations will be finalized in the next 12 months. -- Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group has announced a series of contracts to build and maintain
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Wärtsilä Launches World’s First Large-Scale 100% Hydrogen-Ready Engine Power Plant
(Wärtsilä) Technology group Wärtsilä has today launched the world’s first large-scale 100% hydrogen-ready engine power plant, to enable the net-zero power systems of tomorrow. The IEA World Energy Outlook 20231 shows that hydrogen is an essential component of our future power systems. According
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
FRV Announces $5 Billion Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Production Project in Ceará’s Pecém Port
by Kavitha (Solar Quarter) In a meeting with Governor Elmano de Freitas, executives from FRV, part of the Jameel Energy group, announced their ambitious green hydrogen (H2V) production project in the Pecém Industrial and Port Complex (CIPP). Named H2 Cumbuco, the
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Enova Grants USD 113m for Hydrogen and Ammonia-Fuelled Vessels Next DEADLINE September 27, 2024
(Renewables Now) Norwegian state-run enterprise Enova SF this week awarded over NOK 1.2 billion (USD 113m/EUR 106m) in funding to more than a dozen projects for the delivery of hydrogen and ammonia-fuelled vessels. The winning applications came from the companies Hoegh Autoliners,
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Commission Approves €3 Billion German State Aid Scheme to Support the Development of Hydrogen Core Network
(European Commission) The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, an estimated €3 billion German scheme to support the construction of the Hydrogen Core Network (‘HCN'). The measure will contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the EU Hydrogen Strategy and 'Fit for
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Deconstructing Synthetic Biology across Scales: a Conceptual Approach for Training Synthetic Biologists
by Ashty S. Karim, Dylan M. Brown, Chloé M. Archuleta, Sharisse Grannan, Ludmilla Aristilde, Yogesh Goyal, Josh N. Leonard, Niall M. Mangan, Arthur Prindle, Gabriel J. Rocklin, Keith J. Tyo, Laurie Zoloth, Michael C. Jewett, Susanna Calkins, Neha P. Kamat, Danielle
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
XBX 2024: Navigating the Future of U.S. Liquid Energy --- October 15, 2024 --- Lancaster, PA
Our sessions are centered around the core questions that middle distillate supply chain participants must address in order to ensure a successful transition to low-carbon renewable biofuels. These questions include: Can bio-based diesel production meet demand in existing and emerging markets,
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
XBX 2024: Navigating the Future of U.S. Liquid Energy --- August 21, 2024 --- Boston, MA
Our sessions are centered around the core questions that middle distillate supply chain participants must address in order to ensure a successful transition to low-carbon renewable biofuels. These questions include: Is the production of bio-based diesel fuels scalable to meet demand
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Spurring the Low-Carbon Revolution
by Eric Frey (Gevo/Low Carbon Fuels Coalition) ... There is another American revolution afoot: a low-carbon revolution. ... In Iowa, dairy farmers capture the methane emissions from their manure. In Minnesota, GPS tracks seeds within fractions of an inch to reduce
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
New Blog from Low Carbon Fuels Coalition
(Low Carbon Fuels Coalition) Today, the Low Carbon Fuels Coalition is introducing a new blog. It's a go-to resource for topics & insights on the progress of clean fuel standard policies—both the results they've already delivered to cut hashtag#GHG emissions,
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
Introducing CirculAir: A New Pathway for Sustainable Aviation Fuel from LanzaJet and LanzaTech
by Jimmy Samartzis (LanzaJet) As Chief Executive Officer of LanzaJet, two of the most frequent questions I get asked are: “What is LanzaJet’s relationship with LanzaTech?” and “Why pursue the Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) pathway over all the others?” These two questions are crucial to understanding
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
USDA Announces Improvements to Camelina Pilot Insurance Program
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced improvements to the camelina pilot crop insurance program for the 2025 and succeeding crop years. USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) is expanding coverage options by allowing enterprise units and increasing
June 28, 2024 Read Full Article
US Opens Way for Brazil Used Cooking Oil in Blow for Farmers
by Clarice Couto and Tarso Veloso (BNN Bloomberg) Brazil said the US has cleared the way for its shipments of used cooking oil in a move that may further erode profits for American soybean producers and crushers as they face increased
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Fast-tracking Sustainable Aviation Production --- July 3, 2024 --- ONLINE
The world wants SAF, needs SAF — with targets like the 3 Billion Gallons by 2030 SAF Grand Challenge, it's time to fast-track production. We know the why and the when. But how, where, with what, at what price and
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
USDA Awards REAP Grants To 2 Ethanol Producers
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on June 26 awarded nearly $100 million in loans and grants to 473 projects under the Renewable Energy for America Program. Commonwealth Agri-Energy LLC and Redfield Energy LLC were among those selected for
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
BDO ZoneCONNECT Webinar: Emporia, Kansas and Conecuh County, Alabama
(Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Initiative) On June 27, 2024, Ecostrat Inc., in collaboration with TheDigest, hosted the BDO ZoneCONNECT webinar, highlighting two investment grade BDO Zone communities in North America: Emporia, Kansas, rated ‘BBB’ for Corn Stover, and Conecuh County, Alabama, rated ‘A’ for Woody Biomass. The
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Butte County, California Issued BDO Zone ‘BBB’ Rating for Woody Biomass
(Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Initiative) ‘BBB’ Rating supports new markets for untapped forest residues -- The Butte County Fire Safe Council and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone ‘BBB’ Rating for Woody Biomass. The Butte County BDO Zone is
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Little Colorado River, Arizona Issued BDO Zone ‘A’ Rating for Woody Biomass
(Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Initiative) The Foundation for Little Colorado Revitalization and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone ‘A’ Rating for Woody Biomass, extending a 75-mile drive distance from Springerville, AZ. Little Colorado River’s BDO Zone ‘A’ rating denotes high
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
How Water Could Be the Future of Fuel
by Nicolás Rivero and Emily Wright (Washington Post) A new generation of fuels could power planes and ships without warming the planet. -- ... Turning hydrogen into liquid fuel could help slash planet-warming pollution from heavy vehicles, cutting a key source of emissions
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
South Dakota Encourages Ethanol Use with GOED Blender Pump Grant Program
(My KXLG) The Governor’s Office of Economic Development in South Dakota has announced that it is now accepting applications for the Blender Pump Grant program. This initiative is designed to encourage the use of ethanol blended fuels, a vital component of
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Liquid Fuels, Enviros File First Lawsuits over Fuel Economy Rule
by Alex Guillen (Politico Pro) Leading oil and biofuel groups and a litany of auto dealers have challenged the Transportation Department’s new fuel economy rule in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit. That sets up a lottery to determine
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Changing Their Minds on “Land Use Change”?
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association) In early 2022, University of Wisconsin researcher Tyler Lark published a study claiming that U.S. farmers had converted several million acres of pristine grassland and other “seminatural areas” to cropland in response to the Renewable Fuel Standard
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Aemetis Biogas Reaches Milestone of Operating Dairy Digesters Producing More Than 300,000 MMBtu Per Year of Renewable Natural Gas
(Aemetis) Additional Digester Construction Planned to Increase Production Rate over 150% to 800,000 MMBtu Per Year by Q3 2025 -- Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company focused on low and negative carbon intensity products, today announced that
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Air New Zealand Receives 500,000-Litre Delivery of Sustainable Aviation Fuel
(Air New Zealand) Air New Zealand has this week received a shipment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into Wellington, its first delivery to the nation's capital city and another small step towards its target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Phillips 66 Achieves Full Production Rates of Renewable Fuel
(Phillips 66/BusinessWire) Rodeo Renewed project increases output to approximately 50,000 barrels per day (BPD) -- Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) today announced the full conversion of the Rodeo Renewable Energy Complex, expanding commercial-scale production and positioning the company as a leader in renewable
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to De-risking for Project Efficiency: the ABB Perspective
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This is one ABLC slide guide you don’t want to miss! ABB’s John Oyen shares what ABB Energy Industries is all about, highlights ways developers/producers can improve de-risking and much more. ABB is a technology leader in electrification
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Blue World Completes Successful Testing of 200 kW Maritime Fuel Cell System to Run on Green Methanol
(Blue World) With a successful test of the first ever 200 kW HT PEM fuel cell system, an important milestone was reached in bringing new technology into play to push forward the decarbonisation of the maritime industry. -- After months of preparation,
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Construction Begins on Clean Ammonia Production Facility in UAE, Project Loan Agreement Signed
(Mitsui) Mitsui & Co., Ltd. ("Mitsui", Head Office: Tokyo, President and CEO: Kenichi Hori), alongside TA'ZIZ (owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company ("ADNOC")), Fertiglobe, and South Korea's GS Energy Corporation, has agreed to commence construction of an ammonia production facility
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
Thought of the Week : What’s Another Word for Carbon Capture and Utilization?
Photosynthesis! When plants capture carbon from the air and use it to grow. When plants use sunlight to power the conversion of atmospheric carbon dioxide into leaves, stems, roots, seeds. Some carbon gets stored in the soil. Some becomes food for people
June 27, 2024 Read Full Article
The Most Sustainable Feedstocks for Precision Fermentation
(World Bio Market Insights) Over the last several years, precision fermentation has attracted attention as a manufacturing methods that could drastically lower the environmental impacts of everyday products, from edible proteins to animal feed and cosmetics ingredients. Precision fermentation is a biomanufacturing
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
Clean Fuels Welcomes USDA Request for Information on Climate Smart Ag DEADLINE July 25, 2024
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Today, Clean Fuels welcomed the Hon. Tom Vilsack, U.S. Agriculture Secretary, as he announced a Request for Information regarding climate smart ag practices for biofuel feedstocks. These practices can further lower the lifecycle carbon scores of advanced biofuels like
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
Municipalities Adopt Cleaner Solutions Inking Agreements with Clean Energy
(Clean Energy Fuels) Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ: CLNE), the largest provider of the cleanest fuel for the transportation market, announced a series of new deals with several municipalities across the country. These agreements represent a collective growing demand within city agencies
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
OGCI partners with GCMD to Advance Solutions to Decarbonize Shipping
(Oil and Gas Climate Initiative) Two-year partnership will focus on energy efficiency, future fuels and unlocking the carbon value chain -- The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI) and the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) today (June 25, 2024) announced a
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Hexas Biomass
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Hexas Biomass is a biomaterials company focused on the production and use of sustainable plant-based materials to replace wood and petroleum-based feedstocks in multiple applications, including energy, chemicals, packaging, textiles, and structural/non-structural applications. CEO Wendy Owens
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
KQ to Pioneer IATA Sustainable Fuel in Africa After October Trials
(Business Day Africa) Kenya Airways has been selected as the sole African airline to lead the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Registry, a key milestone for Nairobi based carrier. The move follows Kenya Airways’ earlier trials in
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
OXCCU and px Group Announce New SAF Project
by Poppy Clements (Hydrocarbon Engineering)px Group has announced that OXCCU will develop a first-of-a-kind demonstration plant at its Saltend Chemicals Park in the Humber, UK, that will convert carbon dioxide and green hydrogen into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). OXCCU is a
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
HD Hyundai Oilbank to Pioneer Korea's First Export of Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Michael Herh (Business Korea) HD Hyundai Oilbank announced on June 16 that it will be the first in Korea to export Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The SAF produced by HD Hyundai Oilbank will be supplied to the Japanese trading company Marubeni
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
SAF Boost: BPCL May Invest Rs 1,400 crore to Set up Sustainable Aviation Fuel Units
(BioEnergy Times) State-run Bharat Petroleum Corp (BPCL) is planning to establish sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) units at its three refineries, as per media report. This initiative is aimed at supporting the government’s target of achieving 1% blending of SAF. BPCL is
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
Summit Carbon Solutions Granted Approval by IUB for CO2 Pipeline
(Summit Carbon Solutions) Approval paves the way for new opportunities and support for Iowa’s farmers and ethanol producers. -- Today, the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) announced the approval of Summit Carbon Solutions base pipeline project (HLP-2021-0001). This approval represents a significant milestone not
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
New Studies: Low Carbon Fuels, FFVs More Effective at Reducing GHG Emissions than De Facto EV Mandates
(Renewable Fuels Association) Increased use of lower-carbon liquid fuels in light-duty vehicles would lead to larger and faster reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than EPA’s recently finalized EV-forcing tailpipe emissions standards, according to a new study commissioned by the RFA and executed
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
Lufthansa Group Introduces Environmental Cost Surcharge
(Lufthansa Group) Environmental Cost Surcharge applies to departures from the 27 EU countries as well as the UK, Norway and Switzerland; Charge applies to all tickets issued from June 26, 2024 with departure from January 1, 2025; Lufthansa Group invests billions
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
Call for Nomination of Experts to Scoping Meeting for Methodology Report on Carbon Dioxide Removal Technologies and Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage
(Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is calling on its member governments and observer organizations to nominate experts to the meeting that will draft the outline of the Methodology Report on the Carbon Dioxide Removal
June 26, 2024 Read Full Article
The Future of Internal Combustion Engines | The Better. Cleaner. Now! Podcast
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Despite common misconceptions, diesel isn't the dirty word it once was. Join Scott Fenwick, Technical Director at Clean Fuels Alliance America and Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director at Engine Technology Forum, as they discuss transforming the narrative and
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
More Sustainable Fuels Powering a More Sustainable Business: Neste’s Collaboration with Cleanaway Waste Management
(Neste) When it comes to waste, what if instead of asking “Where does it go,” we asked, “What can it be next?” This is the approach taken by Cleanaway Waste Management Limited, Australia’s leading total waste management solutions provider. Neste, meanwhile,
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
5 Hydrogen Combustion Engines Set to Break the Mold
by Gaurav Roy (Securities.io) Hydrogen combustion has emerged as one of the most promising fuel options, offering significant environmental value and performance. At a design level, these engines date back more than four decades. In 1970, inventor Paul Dieges patented a modification that enabled
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
America’s Truck and Bus Fleets Continue Turnover to Advanced Generation of Near-zero Emission Internal Combustion Engines
(Engine Technology Forum) Gasoline, diesel, natural gas and propane continue to be the primary fuel and technology choices for America’s commercial trucks, transit and school buses, with the population of advanced technology near-zero emissions diesels increasing 4% over 2022, according to
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Private Group Announces Brazil's Two Longest 'Green Fuel' Pipelines
by Ana Mano (Reuters) Brazil's privately owned Grupo Potencial will invest 200 million reais ($37 million) to build two "green fuel" pipelines in the south of the farm powerhouse, the company's Vice-President Carlos Hammerschmidt said on Monday. The biofuel pipelines, which will
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Mark P. Mills
It’s no coincidence that the benefits of the still-expanding digital economy are colliding with the energy realities of the old economy. Ironically, the energy-hungry cloud is enabling a booming gig economy, which in turn fuels demand for the old economy’s
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
ASTM International Honors Steve Howell with Prestigious Eagle Award
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Clean Fuels Alliance America proudly announces that Steve Howell, MARC-IV (M4) Consulting, was honored with the prestigious Eagle Award at the semi-annual ASTM International D02 Committee meetings in Austin, Texas this week (June 19, 2024). The Eagle Award honors
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Clean Fuels Petitions EPA to Reconsider 2024 and 2025 RFS Volumes
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Today, Clean Fuels filed a formal petition asking the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2024 and 2025. The agency set biomass-based diesel and overall advanced volumes significantly below actual production of the
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Parliament Endorses Law on Mandatory Share of Biofuels in Transport Sector
(UkrInform) The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, has approved law No. 3356-d in its entirety on the mandatory share of liquid biofuels (biocomponents) in the transport sector. Yaroslav Zhelezniak, an MP from the Holos Party, announced this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports. According to him, 235
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
University of Nevada, Reno Research Focuses on Use of Cactus Pear in Biofuel Production
by John Seelmeyer (Nevada Today) University of Nevada, Reno research focuses on use of cactus pear in biofuel production; Spurred by climate change demands, three-year field trial identifies high-production varieties; Cactus pear, known scientifically as Opuntia cochenillifera, appears to have significant potential
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
100% Ethanol Engine Is Case IH's Highlight at This Year's Agrishow
(Case IH/AccessWire) Case IH, a brand of CNH, has worked in partnership with FPT Industrial to develop an ethanol-powered engine. Case IH presented the prototype at this year's Agrishow in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. The Cursor 13 propellant is a prototype for the use of fuel
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Becomes First Company to Produce Bio-methanol from Digester Gas in Japan
(Mitsubishi Gas Chemical) Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. (MGC; Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Masashi Fujii) today June 20, 2024) announced that it has begun producing bio-methanol at a just-completed facility within the company’s Niigata Plant, becoming first producer of bio-methanol
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
New Energy Blue and ARCO/Murray Partner to Build Biomass Refineries to Produce Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals
(New Energy Blue) New Energy Blue, the clean-energy developer whose technology converts agricultural waste into lowest-carbon biofuels and biochemicals, and ARCO/Murray, one of America’s largest, most experienced, and fastest-growing construction firms, today announce a partnership to build out the New Energy
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Biodiesel from Shell Proven to Be Suitable for KPD Operations and to Reduce CO2 Emissions
(Scania) Back in November 2023, Scania (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Scania) and Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd (Shell) launched the pilot test of the first pair of Scania road tankers, operated by Konsortium Port Dickson Sdn Bhd (KPD), running solely on B100
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to the State of Renewable Diesel and DME
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This week on ABLC CONNECT, we networked and exchanged information about the world of Renewable Diesel and rDME, and as part of the proceedings, we had the State of Renewable Diesel and rDME presentation. The slides
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Biotechnology, Design and Story, and the Persistence of the Plastics Problem
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Well might you ask, why is there a BioDesign Challenge? For one thing, at such an event, you notice something about young people: how impressively organized and thoughtful they are. ... There’s no app for solving our bigger
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Södra to Become the Largest Producer of Kraft Lignin in the World
(Södra/CISION) As a step in the strategy of getting more out of every tree, Södra is now establishing a new business to become a world leader in the production of kraft lignin. Södra's production facility will be the first commercial facility
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
EU Renewable Ethanol Sets New Record for Greenhouse-Gas Reduction, Confirming Its Importance for Transport De-Fossilisation
(ePURE) Renewable EU ethanol reduced GHG emissions by more than 79% compared to fossil fuel in 2023, according to the latest certified producer data; EU ethanol biorefineries produce more food and feed than fuel -- Production and use of renewable ethanol from ePURE
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Biokraft Reveal RNG Plans in Perstorp Industrial Park
(Bioenergy International) In Sweden, biogas plant and renewable natural gas (RNG) developer Biokraft International AB (Biokraft) formerly known as Scandinavian Biogas Fuels International AB, has announced that it has signed an exclusive land agreement with global specialty chemicals major Perstorp Holding
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
WBA Webinar - Role of Bioenergy in Atmospheric CO2 Removal --- June 25, 2024 --- ONLINE
The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has now surpassed 420 parts per million, underscoring an alarming milestone in the human-induced warming of our planet. Last year, Earth’s average temperature was 1.48 degrees Celsius hotter than the pre-industrial average. To effectively address
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Gasification 2025 --- March 19-20, 2025 --- Bologna, Italy
This event gathers industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore market dynamics, feedstock utilisation, and syngas production. Key topics include Dimethyl Ether (DME) utilisation, investment opportunities, mobility sector advancements, industrial applications, and technical solutions. We’ll also discuss policy frameworks, environmental considerations,
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
2024 C3E Symposium Poster Competition DEADLINE August 18, 2024
(Clean Energy Education and Empowerment) Students and early-career researchers from all academic disciplines are invited to participate in a poster competition at the annual C3E Symposium and Awards, which will be held November 13, 2024 at Stanford University in Stanford,
June 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Photosynthesis Powers Our World, but What Fuels This Fundamental Process?
(Carnegie Science) Adrien Burlacot's lab is attempting to understand biochemical and biophysical steps of how algae capture carbon dioxide, which could enable us to improve the efficiency of important crop plants and to enhance carbon capture solutions. -- It’s hard to overstate
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
USDA: Growth In US Renewable Diesel Production Impacts Global Feedstock Trade
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service on June 11 published a report discussing how the recent boom in U.S. renewable diesel production has caused market-altering shifts to both foreign and domestic feedstock trade. U.S. renewable diesel consumption has
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Rio Tinto Puts Biofuels before Batteries in Carbon Credit Push
by Peter Ker (Financial Review) Rio Tinto has urged the federal government to make crops grown for the production of biofuels eligible for Australian carbon credit units as Canberra appeals to the private sector to propose its own eligibility criteria to earn these
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Avolta and DB Schenker Join Forces on Biofuel Usage
by Fatima Bahtić (Offshore Energy) Swiss-based travel retailer Avolta and German logistics provider DB Schenker have signed an agreement for the transport of goods using marine biofuel between Europe and the United States. Avolta revealed that from now on, all containers that
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
India to Host 64th ISO Council Meeting, Showcasing Leadership in Sugar and Biofuel Sectors
(Krishi Jagran) India is set to host the 64th ISO Council Meeting in New Delhi, spotlighting its leadership in the sugar and biofuel sectors. -- India is hosting the 64th International Sugar Organization (ISO) Council Meeting in New Delhi from June 25th to
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
IIT Kanpur & NSI Kanpur Sign MoU to Establish a Centre of Excellence for Biofuels
(India Today) IIT Kanpur and NSI Kanpur have joined forces to establish a Centre of Excellence for Biofuels, aiming to advance research and technology in ethanol, methanol, bio-CNG, aviation fuel, and green hydrogen production from biomass, bolstering India's energy independence and
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Israel Announces Ambitious Plan to 'Phase Out' Fossil Fuels by 2050
(MENAFN- IANS) Jerusalem, June 17 (IANS) The Israeli Ministry of energy and Infrastructure has announced a strategic plan for the country's energy transition from traditional fossil fuels to biological, synthetic, and hydrogen fuels by 2050. The plan's purpose is to adapt the country's economic growth
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
New Alliance Looking to Boost Hydrogen, Ammonia and Biofuel Production
by Aida Čučuk (Offshore Energy) Empati, a company that specializes in data-centric renewable energy technologies and applied artificial intelligence, and TNE, a provider of energy solutions, have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accelerate the production of green
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Receives Orders for Japan's First Methanol-Fueled RORO Cargo Ships -- Ships for Toyofuji Shipping and Fukuju Shipping, Scheduled for Completion and Handover by the End of Fiscal 2027
(Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) Accumulated technology for liquefied gas carriers utilized to support the construction of Japan's first methanol-fueled RORO vessel; High-performance dual-fuel engine reduces CO2 emissions by more than 10% compared to heavy oil vessels Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a part of
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Utility Global
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Claus Nussgruber, the CEO of Utility Global, made his ABLC debut with this look at the hydrogen landscape and in particular the eXEROtechnology platform, with the promise of electrolysis without costly and hard to secure electricity.
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Bioeconomy Expert Witnesses: The Person You Hope to Never Need
by Wayne Lee and Doug Rivers (LEC Partners (formerly Lee Enterprises Consulting)/Biofuels Digest) In bioeconomy-related projects, two distinct scenarios emerge concerning the expert. On one hand, there’s a company’s proactive decision to seek the expertise of an expert to guide them
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Meet 30 Rising Stars Fighting Climate Change at Work
(GreenBiz) Younger adults lead other generations in seeking purpose-driven work: A large majority of Gen Z (86%) and Millennial (89%) workers say that having a meaningful mission is important in their career, according to a Deloitte survey of 22,800 younger workers. They’ll even “climate
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Unlocking Green Hydrogen Development in South America --- July 15, 2024 --- Washington, DC and ONLINE
South American governments are designing ambitious strategies for the development of a new export that could speed economic development and slow climate change: green hydrogen. Over the next two decades, these and other countries in the region hope to capitalize
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Amtrak Used 1.2mn USG Renewable Diesel in 2023
by Cole Martin (Argus Media) US passenger rail service Amtrak used 1.2mn USG of renewable diesel in fiscal year 2023, up from zero the prior year, as the company balances near-term climate targets with goals to increase ridership. Amtrak started using renewable
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
BP Plans Foray into 2G Ethanol, Sustainable Jet Fuel with Brazil Base
by Roberto Samora and Marcelo Teixeira (Reuters) BP Plc (BP.L) will evaluate expanding and diversifying its biofuel operation in Brazil, looking at new products such as second-generation ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel after buying out Bunge (BG.N) from their joint venture BP Bunge Bioenergia. The company said
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Celebrating Nebraska Biofuels
by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) (Nebraska's Best Country) June marks the start of a busy summer driving season. This year, many American families are feeling the pain of prices at the pump. Since Joe Biden took office, gas prices have risen
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
California Plans First-of-Its-Kind Financial Penalty on Aviation Fuel
by Anne C. Mulkern (Politico Pro Energywire) Companies that supply aviation fuel would have to offset the carbon emissions by funding cleaner transportation fuel projects. -- Every day, nearly 600 airline flights carry passengers between airports within California. It’s the nation’s largest
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
The U.S. and Europe Can’t Agree on What Counts as Sustainable Aviation Fuel. That’s Leaving Investors in a Bind.
by H. Claire Brown and Yusuf Khan (Wall Street Journal) ... But as the industry matures, fuel producers and airlines are scratching their heads over how best to invest their cash because of one major problem: No one agrees on what counts
June 24, 2024 Read Full Article
New Foes Emerge in Carbon Bill Fight: Oil Refiners
by Kelsey Brugger and Emma Dumain (E&E Daily) Three prominent oil refiners have been raising concerns with Republicans over legislation that would study the carbon intensity of domestic products. Some of the nation’s largest oil companies have been raising concerns with congressional
June 21, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050, the Airlines for America Perspective
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sean Newsum, now with Airlines for America after long service at Boeing, returns to the ABLC stage for a perspective on the path to 20250, including closing the affordability gap for SAF buyers, increasing SAF production
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
Grant Agreement -- E-MethanolXWSolution – CINEA – European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency
(Terntank) The objective of the eMETHANOLxWSolution project is to contribute to the decarbonization of the shipping industry and our customer’s zero-emission supply chains of renewable fuels in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. The project demonstrates an innovative combination of foldable
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
Bloomberg Green Festival --- July 10-13, 2024 --- Seattle, WA
We're assembling Earth's foremost collaborators, activists and innovators to lead the way towards a new climate era. Operating across sustainability, design, culture, food, tech, data, science, policy and entertainment - attendees will participate in solutions-driven experiences alongside world-renowned experts to
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
FASB Proposes Rule on How Companies Account for Environmental Credits
by Mark Maurer (Wall Street Journal) The standard setter wants to establish requirements around renewable-energy certificates and carbon offsets amid the emergence of compliance programs -- The Financial Accounting Standards Board wants to set requirements on how companies account for environmental credits
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
The Establishment of Climate Ethanol Alliance – Revisiting the Role of Ethanol in Transport Decarbonisation
(Climate Ethanol Alliance) The Climate Ethanol Alliance (CEA), representing interests in Europe, the US, and Asia, has been established to advance transport decarbonisation. The Alliance brings together bioethanol producers, service providers, and input suppliers within the bioeconomy to support the climate
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
Ohio Ethanol Producers Not Concerned about EVs Intruding on Their Industry
by Rick Adamczak (The Daily Reporter) “EVs are not taking away our business and, quite frankly, they’re not taking away business from gas producers,” said Brad Moffitt, ethanol specialist at Ohio Corn & Wheat. “Liquid fuels are not going to go
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
EU Quota for Sustainable Jet Fuel Cannot Be Met, Fraport CEO Says
by Ilona Wissenbach and Thomas Seythal (Reuters) Producers of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the European Union cannot increase output fast enough to meet quotas, the CEO of Frankfurt airport operator Fraport (FRAG.DE) said, adding the new European Commission would have to address
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to MetGen
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bioprocessing solutions for next gen biorefineries is what MetGen is about, and this illuminating slide guide from ABLC 2024 highlights how they maximize the value for biomass, de-bottleneck a biorefinery, all about the enzymatic lignin fractionation
June 20, 2024 Read Full Article
Have Your Say on a Future Made in Australia: Unlocking Australia's Low Carbon Liquid Fuel Opportunity Public Comment DEADLINE July 18, 2024
(Office of The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government) The Albanese Government is seeking views on ways to help kickstart Australia’s low carbon liquid fuels (LCLF) industry, from farm and feedstock to bowser. We are seeking
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
Biomethane Scale-up in Figures: Mapping New Plants and Investments across Europe --- July 5, 2024 --- ONLINE
Disclosing the most recent data on biomethane production facilities in operation and the private investment currently driving the growth of the sector with the launch of a new edition of the European Biomethane Map and the EBA Biomethane Investment Outlook. 2024
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
€25 Billion in Private Investments Secured for the Growth of the Biomethane Sector in Europe by 2030
(European Biogas Association) The European biomethane sector will receive an injection of €25 billion in private investments by 2030, according to a European Biogas Association (EBA) analysis released today. This represents a 30% increase compared to last year estimates. The 2nd edition of the Biomethane
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
Supported by NEXTCHEM, KT Awarded a USD 400 Million Project for an HVO Complex to Produce High Quality Renewable Diesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuels in Germany
(Maire) The complex, located inside the HOLBORN refinery in Hamburg, is expected to be operational in early 2027 and will produce 220,000 tons per year of high-quality renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from waste and residues; The project will leverage both KT's execution and NEXTCHEM's
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
FOZ Do Iguacu Receives the First Synthetic Oil P{roduction Plant from Biogas in Brazil
(CI Biogas (Google Translation)) The International Center for Renewable Energy ( CIBiogás ) and the Brazil-Germany Cooperation for Sustainable Development, through the H2Brasil project, inaugurated, on June 17th, the first pilot plant in Brazil for the production of synthetic oil from biogas, focusing
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to EVs…How Much of a Threat to Biofuels?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In this presentation, Raymond James Sr VP Pavel robin returns to the ABLC stage to share his perspective on the threat to biofuels posed by electrification of the fleet — or is the threat that big
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
SkyNRG Releases Sustainabil Aviation Fuel Market Outlook 2024
(SkyNRG) - A decisive year for announced projects targeting operations before 2030, as most in progress facilities still face the challenges of raising capital, construction, and commissioning. - Regulatory developments are driving Sustainable Aviation fuel (SAF) demand, with mandates and aspirational
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
Malaysia and Japan Test Recycling Dead Palm Trees into Biofuel
by Fumika Sato (Nikkei Asia) Palm oil industry looks to lessen carbon footprint tied to decaying trunks -- Japanese and Malaysian researchers are testing a process to turn felled palm trees into biomass that serves as a renewable source of energy. The trunks of felled
June 19, 2024 Read Full Article
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