by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Certified compostable bioplastics face systematic rejection by industrial composters prioritizing finished compost quality over polymer degradability. Less than one-third of food-waste composting facilities accept bioplastic-coated paper, while rigid PLA and PHA items are frequently banned due
by Ava Brooke (Farm Progress) Legislative Watch: Farm bill talks resume; Save Our Bacon fight hits campaign trail; Diesel and RFS moves ripple into markets; USDA reorganization frozen. ... Fuel relief and biofuel policy reach into feed markets On Oct. 5, President Trump signed
(European Biodiesel Board) This joint letter was undersigned by 13 associations representing renewable fuel producers and distributers. Brussels, 8 October 2026 - As the European Commission prepares the post-2030 renewable energy framework, we, the undersigned organisations* would like to emphasise the importance
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) While in Peosta, Iowa, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced revisions to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) “Set 2” rule volumes to keep the historic and necessary volumes intact and increase target markets for
by Michelle Rook (AgWeb) Lawmakers aim for year-end deal as midterm elections loom. -- The farm bill has expired, and lawmakers say a new agreement won’t come for at least a month as Congress navigates a complex legislative landscape. Congress had
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on Sept. 30 published a final rule that fundamentally changes the structure and administration of the agency’s Rural Energy for America Program. REAP will now require projects to be fully built and operational
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Total ethanol consumption in the Philippines is expected to increase by nearly 4% this year, according to a report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s Global Agricultural Information Network. Ethanol imports are expected to
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced increased financial assistance for the Regenerative Pilot Program from $700 million to $1 billion in fiscal year 2027, providing more producers with the opportunity to adopt conservation systems that improve
by Stu Porter (Biofuels Consulting Canada/EuropeSays.com) Prime Minister Mark Carney spent last week in Brussels telling the European Parliament that Canada is ready to build new alliances “deliberately, systematically, and rapidly.” Europe, he said, is already rebuilding its defence industrial base
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Ag Bioeconomy Has Strong Potential, But Faces Funding, Infrastructure Hurdles -- The Corn Belt has abundant agricultural feedstocks and the technology is there to turn more crops and crop residue into chemicals, plastics and other products,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Senate Agriculture Committee has formally advanced a proposed Farm Bill containing a long-sought prize: permanent nationwide authorization for year-round E15 sales. It is a calculated federal hammer designed to smash the seasonal summer volatility that
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) American dairy producers no longer subject to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) overregulation -- Today (September 17, 2026), U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to American farmers, announcing the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The Senate Agriculture Committee met Wednesday for the first time in over a month to re-vote on the Agriculture Act of 2026 – the farm bill, including E15 – and pass it along party lines by a
by Beth Anton (Renewable Energy Magazine) U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brook Rollins announced the launch of USDA’s new American Biofuels Trade Outlook, a four-part strategy that aims to boost export opportunities for U.S. biofuel producers, at the 17th Annual Growth Energy Biofuel
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) New data tool brings modern, streamlined data access to producers nationwide -- The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) today launched AgInsights, a new data dissemination tool that will serve as a key component of NASS’s ongoing modernization
by Jared White (Browfield Ag News) The CEO of Continuum Ag says recently announced updates to the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit provide a clear path for farmers to benefit from incorporating regenerative ag practices. However, during a recent webinar, Mitchell
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) U.S. ethanol exports set new volume and value records over the past two calendar years and are ahead of last year’s record pace through June of this year, but a new USDA report indicates there are a
by Marc Heller (Politico Pro) Colleges and universities are pushing back on Trump administration proposals that would give political appointees more say over grants. -- The federal government has long awarded agricultural research grants to universities based on set criteria, such as
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Lever Federal procurement only de-risks bioeconomy projects when volume risk is enforceably transferred to the buyer in a form surviving appropriations lapses. Standard multiyear contracts are budgeting efficiencies that lenders cannot underwrite because they mandate termination
by Marc J. Rauch (Auto Channel (Originally Published June 13, 2013)) A Book That's Aptly Named for What It Is -- ... But in my personal research of ethanol, which includes purchasing a non-flex fuel vehicle so that I could experiment with
by Roxby Hartley and Chelsa Oren (EcoEngineers/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Emerging discussions around feedstock traceability, particularly within California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) framework, suggest that producers may soon be required to demonstrate a much higher level of transparency in their supply
by Danielle Anderson & Kari Buttenhoff (Christianson/Biodiesel Magazine) As the USDA’s regenerative agricultural feedstock framework moves toward implementation under the 45Z clean fuel production credit, attention is growing towards reallocating reduced-carbon intensity (CI) feedstock between separately located, but commonly owned elevators. While this
by Samyak Pandey (S&P Global) (Argentine) Senate reviews bills boosting blend levels; Ethanol output hits 1.35 billion liters; Biodiesel exports drop to 2007 lows Argentina is considering its most significant biofuels policy overhaul in years, with lawmakers debating legislation that would increase ethanol
(U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council) The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), through its Latin America office and with support from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) through the Market Access Program, delivered a technical assistance program to one of Colombia’s leading
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Forest Service on Aug. 5 awarded $300,000 to LanzaTech Inc. to support design work for a proposed biorefinery project in Bellemont, Arizona, that would produce wood-based ethanol. The proposed project would create a
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Having the universe’s most powerful device is entirely useless if you lack a trained Corps capable of wielding it under real-world pressure. Industrial biotechnology already knows how brutal technology transfer can be. Moving a process from
by Lynn L. BergesonCarla N. Hutton (Bergeson & Campbell) In July, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) published the Trump Administration’s 2026 Unified Agenda. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Unified Agenda includes the following rulemakings regarding biobased products and biotechnology: Technical Guidelines
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) In his 2006 State of the Union address, President George W. Bush suggested that converting switchgrass and other non-corn feedstock into fuel ethanol could help us end our “addiction to oil” and “make our
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) Following the Senate Agriculture Committee’s failure to advance the Agricultural Act of 2026, Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association Executive Director Brian Werner issued the following statement: “Today’s outcome on the Senate Farm Bill is a missed opportunity for drivers, farmers, fuel
by John Duff (Farm Progress Kansas Farmer) Sorghum Focus: Conservation production practices could finally pay off with 45Z opportunities. But proceed with caution. -- At first glance, the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit should reward the production practices many sorghum farmers
by Ramani Narayan (Michigan State University/Biofuels Digest) ... Yet, deep within the machinery of the 2026 Farm Bill, ... Section 9004 in Energy Title IX, attempts to redefine the term “bio”-a move that may sound like inside-the-Beltway semantics, but one that has
Zhangliang Chen, Kaiyu Guan and Jonathan Coppess (University of Illinois/farmdoc daily) Continuing the review of the Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, this article explores the potential economic benefit that could be created for Midwest corn and soybean producers implementing approved practices. Previously,
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture on June 23 announced it has awarded $5.6 million to support 11 projects that focus on converting, treating, processing, refining or manufacturing products to utilize plant, animal
(Red River Farm Network) North Dakota’s canola industry continues to expand, with USDA estimating farmers planted a record 2.35 million acres this year. “We’re really seeing a geographic expansion of canola in the state,” said Barry Coleman, executive director, Northern Canola
by Doug Durante (Clean Fuels Development Coalition/Biofuels Digest) ... The very idea that the ethanol and ag community needed to negotiate unrelated concessions to the oil industry in order to allow retailers and others to choose to use 5 percent more
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange on July 8 released a new quarterly report that discusses the current status of E15 legislation. The report also highlights the ethanol industry’s increased use of grain sorghum feedstock. ... While Midwest lawmakers continue
by Maria Lígia Barros and Denise Cathey (Argus Media) A lowering of Brazilian tariffs against ethanol is off the table in current US-Brazil trade negotiations, Brazil trade minister Marcio Elias Rosa said ahead of a 15 July deadline for a new
by CJ Evans (Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition/Biofuels Digest) For over two decades, the United States bioeconomy has possessed the technological ingenuity to replace fossil-derived fuels, chemicals, and products, revitalize rural economies, establish domestic energy independence, and challenge global competitors for
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sovereign-backed concessional capital provides the patient, lower-cost funding essential for scaling first-of-a-kind bioeconomy plants. However, U.S. instruments like DOE LPO and USDA loans face strict mandates and lengthy approvals, lagging behind more flexible international green banks.
by Kim Chipman (Agri-Pulse) ... Corey Lavinsky, vice president of renewables policy at Calumet’s Montana Renewables, recalled (recently deceased Senator Lindsey) Graham’s strong support for the U.S. ethanol mandate under the Renewable Fuel Standard law. “At the 2015 Iowa Ag Summit, he
by Arvin Donley (World Grain) When the United States ramped up corn-based ethanol production in the early part of this century, a food vs. fuel debate ensued with many proclaiming that increased grain-based biofuels output would threaten global food security. It
(T)he path to financial close just got clearer on paper, but it still doesn’t have money at the end of it. -- Cynthia Thyfault, Founder and CEO, QuantaVision regarding Section 9003 loan program READ MORE
(Aemetis) Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a diversified renewable natural gas and biofuels company, today announced that its ethanol and renewable natural gas subsidiaries have received funds from the sales of $18 million of Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credits. The sales
by Erin Krueger (Biomass Magazine) The European Parliament on July 8 voted to reject a proposed European Union regulation that would have phased out the use of soybean oil as a biofuel feedstock in the EU by 2030. Representatives of the
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... U.S. Department of the Treasury currently plans to issue final 45Z clean fuel production credit regulations in November 2026. Information on Treasury’s 45Z rulemaking process is one of hundreds of regulatory actions summarized in the
(U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council) The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), in cooperation with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA’s FAS) and the Korea Biofuels Forum, hosted the 2026 Seoul Biofuels & Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Conference in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... (Former US president Thomas) Jefferson believed that the nation’s strength would arise from its land, its farmers, its capacity for self-sufficiency, and the vast possibilities of continental expansion. (Former US president John) Adams believed
(Forth.News) President Trump signed an Executive Order on June 25, 2026 to advance regenerative agriculture and strengthen farm resilience, directing HHS, USDA and EPA to boost research and partnerships in the sector. [1] Simultaneously, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a final Regenerative Feedstock Rule
(U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council) Last week (week of June 1, 2026), the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) invited influential journalists and representatives from weekly Japanese business journals to the United States for interviews and site visits related to the
(National Corn Growers Association) The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), along with 15 state corn organizations, delivered a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to Under Secretary of Research, Education, and Economics Scott Hutchins, encouraging investment in research that supports
by Andres Picon and Jennifer Yachnin (E&E Daily) The legislation includes forestry and conservation provisions but steers away from issues like pesticide labeling and biofuels policy. Senate Agriculture Chair John Boozman on Tuesday painted a grim outlook for the nation’s farmers and
by Cynthia Thyfault (QuantaVision) ... I’ve worked inside Section 9003 since it was written into the 2008 Farm Bill. Not adjacent to it. Inside it — application after application, year after year, alongside a small handful of people who have actually walked
by Chris Bennett (AgWeb) ... “Go anywhere in rural Illinois and find me a single farmer that has real faith in USDA or sincere belief in their crop reports. You won’t meet even one,” says Grundy County producer Sam Halterman.
by Jenny Schlecht (AgWeek) ... The United Kingdom, Lindberg (Luke Lindberg, under secretary of agriculture for trade and foreign agricultural affairs in the U.S. Department of Agriculture) noted, has increased its purchase of ethanol by about 50% following a trade agreement with
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on June 15 delivered a final rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget that would, in part, “simplify and streamline requirements and processes” for the Rural Energy for America Program. REAP
(Holland & Knight) • The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and a group of other federal agencies recently issued a proposed rule in the Federal Register that, if finalized, would make significant changes across federal agencies related to the approval
Zhangliang Chen and Jonathan Coppess (University of Illinois/farmdoc daily) As discussed previously, the Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit, or Section 45Z, is a tax credit for biofuel producers, not a direct payment or benefit to farmers (farmdoc daily, May 27, 2026). The
by Gil Gullickson (Wallaces Farmer/Farm Progress) As Things Look to Me: Carbon intensification score helps determine eligibility for Section 45Z payments. Section 45 of the Inflation Act of 2022 could determine payments to farmers who produce low-carbon fuels. The tax credit’s worth is based
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, on June 12 pressed Hal Duncan, President Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as deputy director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, on the current status of USDA’s 45Z
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on June 10 announced it is now accepting fiscal year (FY) 2027 funding applications for five trade promotion programs, including those that support efforts to increase exports of ethanol and distillers grains. The specific
(Renewable Fuels Association) Earlier today (June 12, 2026), the R Street Institute—a self-described “think tank whose work is grounded in liberty and freedom”—published an opinion piece (heavy emphasis on “opinion”) on ethanol policy. It’s a real doozy, chock full of myths
(Ethanol Producer Magazine) U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins reiterated support for E15 and confirmed that release of USDA feedstock guidance related to the 45Z clean fuel production credit is imminent during a June 10 hearing held by the Senate Agriculture Committee. During
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) on April 17 released proposed default greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions values for Brazilian corn ethanol, Thai sugarcane ethanol and Thai cassava ethanol, according to a report filed
by Brent Barnett (Brownfield Ag News) Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says the U.S. ethanol industry is heading in the right direction. “This year we’re going to have ethanol exports up 20% and corn exports up 22%,” Rollins said. “The world is opening
(Rhoads Energy) The groundbreaking ceremony included remarks from local officials, project partners, and Rhoads Energy leadership, marking a shared commitment to expanding renewable fuel infrastructure in the region. Expanding access to cleaner, renewable fuel for our region Rhoads Energy has officially broken ground
(Congressional Algae Caucus) The Congressional Algae Caucus is a bipartisan forum created to help members of Congress and congressional staff better understand the potential of algae-based technologies. Since its launch in 2013, the caucus has helped elevate algae as a solution
(U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agriculture Service) In 2025, the Netherlands imported $535 million of U.S. biofuels, solidifying its role as a key hub for sustainable road, aviation, and shipping fuels. Starting in 2026, Dutch legislation imposes greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on March 27 finalized the 2026 and 2027 Renewable Fuel Standard renewable volume obligations (RVOs) at levels higher than originally proposed. The increase, however, is primarily attributed to delayed implementation of provisions
(Biofuels Digest) The house lights dim. Conversations soften to a hum. In a ballroom a few blocks from the Capitol, the people who move the bioeconomy—scientists, financiers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs—lean forward. This is ABLC 2026, the long-anticipated turning point from
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Because this week on Capitol Hill, rural energy advocates found themselves fighting on two fronts at once: the loud, highly visible struggle over year-round E15, and the slower, grinding campaign to move a long-stalled
by Isabella Warren (Gray Media Iowa State Capitol Bureau/KCRG) Vice president campaigns for Iowa congressman as Congress prepares to vote on expanded ethanol access -- Vice President JD Vance spoke in Des Moines on Monday (May 4, 2026) supporting Iowa Republican Congressman
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The USDA outlines shifting dynamics in the biofuel sector, highlighting the surge in fats, oils, and greases for renewable diesel production over traditional Midwestern biodiesel. A major newsworthy conflict centers on international carbon accounting: CORSIA’s risk
by Marc Heller (Politico Pro Greenwire) A proposal to boost low-value woody material as a biofuel feedstock failed in the House last week — but it's likely to reemerge in the Senate. -- A long-brewing battle over converting wood to energy is
by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (Bergeson & Campbell) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on April 7, 2026, the creation of the USDA Guidance Portal, an online searchable, indexed database that contains guidance documents issued by USDA and
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) A decision by the European Commission on April 10, 2026, to phase out soybeans as a feedstock for biofuels by 2030 could have broader implications for U.S. agriculture, according to a new report from USDA's
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The House Committee on Rules on April 16 announced lawmakers could submit amendments that will be considered for the 2026 Farm Bill through noon on April 22. Amendments focused on year-round E15 and the Renewable
by Anna Simet (Ethanol Producer Magazine) This EPM podcast features, Erin Krueger, Senior News Editor at BBI International. Hosted by Anna Simet, Ethanol Producer Magazine. Join us at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo - June 2-4, 2026 in St.
by Jake Zajkowski (AgDaily) ... Researchers say this expansion is being driven by policy and land availability, not widespread new deforestation. “This production is not based on the expansion in surface, but in the intensification of land use and increase in the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Jaffe Policy Consulting presented strategies to support the conversion of agricultural feedstocks into successful biobased products, aiming to enhance U.S. agricultural sustainability. The most newsworthy updates revolve around regulatory advancements, specifically changes to the USDA 9003
(Renewable Fuels Association) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s data, analysis and research are the “gold standard” among international statistical agencies for agriculture, the Renewable Fuels Association said in comments submitted today in response to a USDA request for information on opportunities, challenges, and
(BioCycle Magazine) The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended its pause on loan guarantees for biodigester and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) projects, signaling growing concern over project performance and lending risk within these sectors. In an April 6 Unnumbered Letter, USDA’s Rural Business
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory announced the “BioCircular Valley,” a major 5-year project funded by Schmidt Sciences and FFAR to address agricultural supply chain inefficiencies. Partnering with UC Berkeley, UC Davis, and the USDA, the initiative tackles
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Industry stakeholders submitted comments this week to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service regarding proposed rules on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. The proposed regulations, released on February 3, provide guidance on the
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on April 1 delivered a final rule to establish “technical guidelines for the production of regenerative agricultural biofuel feedstocks” to the White House Office of Management and Budget, where it will undergo interagency
(Reneable Fuels Association) The U.S. Department of Treasury has made “meaningful progress” in developing rules implementing the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, but several aspects of the regulations need additional clarity and refinement, according to comments submitted to Treasury by the Renewable
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) USDA Halts REAP Grant Applications as Rising Energy Costs Squeeze Farmers -- As rural energy costs continue to climb, USDA has halted grant applications for the Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP) while the department rewrites
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ...(T)he final “Set 2” Renewable Fuel Standard volume requirements for 2026 and 2027. Not a tweak. A reset. After seasons of regulatory uncertainty and economic headwinds, President Donald Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin delivered what
by Erin Krueger (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives in March each voted in favor of a bill to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The legislation currently awaits action
(Ag Newswire) The National Ag Day activities took place in Washington, D.C. today (March 24, 2026) with an impressive slate of speakers, starting with USDA Secretary Agriculture Brooke announcing a new “Product of USA” consumer campaign. Brooke Rollins Ag Day Remarks (19:03) Today, on National Agriculture Day, U.S.
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Today, Clean Fuels Alliance America thanked the Environmental Protection Agency for finalizing robust biomass-based diesel volumes in the 2026-27 Renewable Fuel Standard rule. The RFS rule provides much-needed certainty to biodiesel and renewable diesel producers and other
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, Clean Fuels Alliance America and the SAF Coalition on March 25 joined more 20 state and national ag groups in urging the Trump Administration to make the upcoming 45Z
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, in consultation with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and in accordance with the Clean Air Act (CAA), issued a temporary emergency fuel waiver to allow nationwide sales of
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) “Together America Prospers” That’s the slogan on the pens given out at the US Department of Agriculture information table at the Advanced Bioeconomy Leadership Conference (ABLC) held in Washington DC. March 18-20. The importance of
by John Hall (Delmarva Farmer) Crushing a typical 60-pound bushel of soybeans yields 11-12 pounds of crude oil, 44-48 pounds of meal, and 4 pounds of hull. The crushing balance sheet requires sales of all components for it to be profitable. ... The
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The chairman of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee said Friday he sees a pathway to pass year-round E15 and a new Farm Bill, but some provisions in the House bill involviR-NE)ng pesticide rules and California's
by Lydia Johnson and Kim Chipman (Agri-Pulse) Regulations for the new 45Z biofuel tax incentive need to account for cover crops, precision fertilizer applications and other regenerative agriculture practices to ensure that farmers fully benefit from the subsidy, farm-state Republican lawmakers say
by Kaleb Roedel (KUNR Public Radio) Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno, have received a $9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to study an unlikely candidate for future fuels: cactus pear. The desert-adapted plant already grows across much of the
by Ryan Koory (Argus Media) Slowing global trade activity, and growing biofuels opportunities have pushed US sorghum growers to pivot towards ethanol as a future driver of demand. Slowing international trade, with some partners "on the sideline" this year combined with a
(U.S. Grains & Bioproducts Council) The U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) recently developed a set of infographics with statistics about U.S. agricultural exports in marketing year (MY) 2024/2025 and explainers on ethanol storage and infrastructure compatibility. Using data from the U.S.
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On Feb.11, to help expand export markets for U.S. food and ag products, the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced awarding more than $212 million through the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development program. FAS broke
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The American Coalition for Ethanol’s 15th annual Washington, D.C. Fly-In & Government Affairs Summit March 17–18 comes at a defining moment for ethanol, agriculture and rural America. With major decisions surrounding year-round
by Barry Coleman (Northern Canola Growers Association/Farm & Ranch Guide) The bullish strength of oilseed markets recently is tied to the efforts of biofuel supporters on both sides of the border seeking to grow the industry and the expectation that
by Erin Krueger (Biomass Magazine) The USDA on Feb. 19 released its Grains and Oilseed Outlook, predicting an increase in soybean production and planted acres for 2026-'27. The volume of soybean oil used for biofuel production is expected to increase approximately
by Sean Pratt (Western Producer) Canada remains top buyer of American ethanol, but other potential markets include Mexico, the EU, Nigeria and India Canada remains the top export market for U.S. ethanol, purchasing 757 million gallons of the fuel in 2024-25. The country blended the
(U.S. Department of Agriculture U.S. Forest Service) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service today (February 18, 2026) announced up to $95 million in competitive grant funding through its Wood Innovations program for projects that advance innovative wood uses, expand wood-based
(U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council) Today, President Trump’s Administration announced a new Agreement on Reciprocal Trade between the United States and Indonesia that gives tariff-free access for U.S. ethanol, corn, distiller’s grains, corn gluten meal, sorghum and barley. Through the agreement, Indonesia
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) California Ethanol + Power’s Sugar Valley Energy project — 160 acres of integrated biorefinery ambition — wants to turn sugarcane into 73 million gallons of low-carbon ethanol, 771 million cubic feet of renewable natural gas, and
by Jeff Mulhollem (Pennsylvania State University) Implementing novel management practices in dairy farming, one of the commonwealth’s major agricultural industries, could help alleviate a large source of both nutrient pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, according to a multidisciplinary team led by
By Tom Polansek (Reuters) USDA launches review after unprecedented acreage estimate increases; Staffing cuts hindered data processing, former official says; Farmers' reluctance to participate in surveys complicates estimates -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture, long the world's gold standard for crop
(Office of Senator Chris Coons (D-DE)) U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) introduced the Renewable Chemicals Act. The bipartisan legislation would provide a targeted, short-term tax credit for qualifying renewable chemicals or an investment tax credit for renewable chemical production facilities. Renewable chemicals are produced from biomass
by Margy Eckelkamp (AgWeb) The proposed rule sets up farmers to participate in the opportunity created by these biofuel producer tax credits, but questions remain. -- On Feb. 3, the Treasury Department confirmed farmers will have a seat at the table to
by Paola Caballeros (S&P Global) Brazil DDGS cargo to China could reshape global trade dynamics; China could import 1 million tons of Brazilian DDGS annually: USDA Brazil's dried distillers grains with solubles entry into the Chinese market could reshape global trade flows, market
by Marc Heller (Politico Pro E&E Daily) House Agriculture Chair Glenn Thompson said he'll try to end a nearly three-year delay in updating agriculture policies. -- House Agriculture Chair Glenn Thompson pledged Wednesday (February 4, 2026) to complete a five-year farm bill
by Kip Eideberg (Association of Equipment Manufacturers/The Hill) American agriculture is at a crossroads. With few new free trade agreements in place and global markets increasingly shaped by geopolitical tension, U.S. farmers face shrinking access to international buyers. At the same time,
by Joshua Baethge (Farm Progress) In letter to congressional ag committees, former USDA and farm group officials cite Trump’s policies as causing “tremendous harm” to U.S. agriculture. -- A bipartisan group of former USDA and farm group leaders warned Congress about the farm economy’s
by CJ Evans (Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition/Federal Funding Services/Biofuels Digest) ... He (CJ Evans) has seen far too many projects fall by the wayside, not because they were flawed or not any good, but because they could not get additional grants
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Ten years ago, Visolis entered the federal innovation pipeline through Cyclotron Road—the DOE-backed fellowship that helped define the climate-tech generation. Founder Deepak Dugar was part of a wave of scientists trying to turn low-carbon chemistry into
by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (Bergeson & Campbell) On January 14, 2026, Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Renewable Chemicals Act (S. 3632). According to Ricketts’s January 14, 2026, press release, the bipartisan legislation “would provide
by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (Bergeson & Campbell) The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) has published a January 2026 discussion paper entitled “Creating Clear Regulatory Pathways for Biotechnology.” According to the paper, biotechnology regulations in the United
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) With the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council set to begin work, agriculture, biofuels and petroleum organizations are pushing for the council to quickly reach a legislative solution to make E15 available nationally on a permanent
Registration is now open for USDA's 102nd Agricultural Outlook Forum. It is your chance to connect with top professionals in the agriculture industry and gain insights into the future of agriculture! Save the date and plan to attend either in-person
by Erin Krueger (Biomass Magazine) The USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service on Jan. 14 sent a letter to agency staff implementing a 90-day administrative pause on the acceptance, processing and awarding of loan note guarantees for biodigester projects. “This action is being
by Hadriana Lowenkron (Bloomberg/MSN) President Donald Trump threw his support behind a legislative proposal that would expand sales of higher-ethanol E15 gasoline as he looked to build support for his economic record with a crowd that included farmers in Iowa. Trump told
by Erin Krueger (Biomass Magazine) A coalition of 34 environmental groups on Jan. 14 filed a rulemaking petition with the USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service to make certain anaerobic digestion projects ineligible to receive grants or loans under the Rural Energy for
(Associated Press/KTAR) It’s not just about sending federal law enforcement officers into Minnesota. President Donald Trump’s administration is also lashing out at the state by threatening to withhold billions in federal money, much of it intended to help low-income families with
by Rick Gilmore (GIC Group/Biofuels Digest) Biofuel production, end-use in the US, and exports all have registered steady gains from 2016-2025. The track record of growth and production efficiencies has been impressive, but challenges lie ahead and verifiable carbon benefits can
by Kim Chipman (Agri-Pulse) As farmers get a new round of bad crop market news, biofuel investment has stalled due to U.S. policy uncertainty. America’s crop farmers got hit with a fresh wave of market woes this week, ramping up pressure on the Trump
by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (Bergeson & Campbell) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on December 30, 2025, several coordinated actions intended to emphasize American agricultural research and innovation “by ensuring ideas stay in America or among our allies, not
(Cl;ean Fuels Alliance America) Today, Clean Fuels Alliance America sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, asking the agency to maintain the 2025 Renewable Fuel Standard compliance deadline on March 31, 2026, to mitigate the impacts of rulemaking delays. Under
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on Dec. 30 announced new research and development priorities for 2026. One of the five new priorities focuses on market expansion and creating new uses for U.S. agricultural products, including for use
by Nick Balenger (WAFF) Alabama farmers are increasingly choosing canola over winter wheat as a new crop option spreads across the state. Stuart Sanderson planted 600 acres of canola at Henderson Farms this year, joining many Alabama farmers who are trading some of
by Kerry Halladay (AgWeb) Rice at $132.89 and cotton at $117.35 will receive the highest per-acre rates, but some have called payments a bandage in the midst of current farm economic crisis. -- The long-awaited Farmer Bridge Assistance rates are out! Rice
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, signed a Secretary’s Memorandum (PDF, 135 KB) that puts forth a focused effort to establish new priorities for future research and development activities funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today, the American bioeconomy finds itself in a curious reversal. We are surrounded by abundance — residues in our fields, forests, and cities — yet capital hesitates. Not because demand is unclear. Not because policy signals
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service on Dec. 17 delivered a proposed rule to set 45Z clean fuel production credit guidance to the White House Office of Management and Budget. OMB
by Jenna Higgins Rose (River Cities' Reader) The Iowa Biodiesel Board today responded to the Trump administration's announcement of a $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, expressing appreciation for the support while emphasizing that long-term, market-driven policy solutions are essential to helping
by Bill Hagy (LEC Partners/Biofuels Digest) In early 2025, two federal actions signaled a notable shift in how the U.S. approaches forest management, timber production, and the utilization of restoration byproducts. While they don’t change market fundamentals overnight, they do
by Krista Swanson (National Corn Growers Association) ... The ethanol industry has made significant gains in efficiency to extract more products and value out of each bushel of corn. Considering roughly one-third of U.S. corn is used for ethanol, such efficiency
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) “U.S. is not where things are happening.” “Policy uncertainty.” “National Security” “Not replacing petroleum; complementing it.” “Not an alternative to electric vehicles (EVs); complementing them.” “Persistence.” “Hurdles.” “Syngas” “Bankability.” “AI” “In Nature, There Is
by Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) It’s been a rocky year for food companies, agribusiness firms, ag lenders and farmers navigating the seismic shift in policies coming out of Washington when it comes to environmental policy, even as much of the farm economy
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Cascadia aims to lead global aviation decarbonization by achieving an ambitious goal of 1 billion gallons of locally produced SAF by 2035. This compelling regional public-private effort targets scaling production and cost parity by transforming infrastructure, policy,
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is making $7 million in payments available to advanced biofuel producers nationwide through the Advanced Biofuel Producer Payment Program, which is a provision of
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The longest partial government shutdown ended after President Donald Trump signed a funding bill into law on Nov. 12 that also extends farm-bill programs. ... The bill provides short-term funding through January 2026 for most of the
by Leah Douglas (Reuters) ... Terms like 'diversity' and 'carbon pricing' targeted for review; Grant cancellations affected climate-friendly farming and local food programs -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture directed its staff to identify grants for possible termination in the early months of
(Renewable Fuels Association) As the California Air Resources Board (CARB) prepares to hold a Biofuels and Land Use Change Public Forum tomorrow (November 6, 2025), a comprehensive new report from Life Cycle Associates, Advances in Estimation of Land Use Change Emissions Associated with Ethanol, shows
(Bnamericas) US agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins has discussed biofuels cooperation with Mexico’s energy minister Luz Elena González Escobar amid rising expectations for the growth of the Mexican ethanol market. “We discussed opportunities for cooperation in the biofuels area in order to strengthen
by Erin Krueger (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The National Farmer Union is urging the White House and congressional leadership to dedicate resources toward expanding use of ethanol, biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as part of any effort to provide assistance to
by Zack Coleman (Politico Pro) Secretaries Wright, Rollins, Lutnick and others personally called nations to scrap a vote on carbon emissions from global shipping. -- Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said Wednesday they personally called countries to push
by Allen Schaeffer (Engine Technology Forum) Yes, there are more than 190,000 miles of liquid petroleum pipelines in the U.S., but none delivering motor fuels to California. ... A bumper bean crop is being crushed by trade and wavering environmental fuels policy. It's a
by Saber Boubaker (Tunisie Numerique) The trade war between the United States and China has opened a new front: food and fuel. After semiconductors and rare metals, the economic conflict now extends to soy and biofuels, turning the global farm belt
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